
Waiwharariki Anzac Square
A vibrant public space in Takapuna, Auckland, known for its dazzling Winter Lights Festival and lively community markets.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical light displays

Waiwharariki Anzac Square
Best Time
Magical light displays
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant public space in Takapuna, Auckland, known for its dazzling Winter Lights Festival and lively community markets.
"Experience pure magic at the Takapuna Winter Lights Festival – a must-see winter event!"

🎟️ Book Winter Lights Tickets
Free entry to Winter Lights, but booking time slots online is essential!
🧥 Dress Warm for Winter Lights
Evenings can be chilly; bundle up to enjoy the magical light installations comfortably.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Takapuna Winter Lights Festival
Waiwharariki Anzac Square
Experience a dazzling display of lights, art, and music that transforms the square into a winter wonderland.

Community Wellness Events
Waiwharariki Anzac Square
Discover local wellness events, including fitness classes and markets, held in this vibrant public space.

Sunday Market Finds
Waiwharariki Anzac Square
Browse a variety of unique items and local crafts at the Sunday market held in the square.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Winter Lights Festival: Book Ahead!
Daytime vs. Nighttime Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Winter Lights Tickets
Free entry to Winter Lights, but booking time slots online is essential!
🧥 Dress Warm for Winter Lights
Evenings can be chilly; bundle up to enjoy the magical light installations comfortably.
🚗 Parking Tips
Consider Huron St, Northcroft St, or Byron Ave for parking during the Winter Lights Festival.
🚶♀️ Explore Day and Night
The square is lovely during the day, but truly shines with lights after dark.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Winter Lights Tickets
Free entry to Winter Lights, but booking time slots online is essential!
🧥 Dress Warm for Winter Lights
Evenings can be chilly; bundle up to enjoy the magical light installations comfortably.
🚗 Parking Tips
Consider Huron St, Northcroft St, or Byron Ave for parking during the Winter Lights Festival.
🚶♀️ Explore Day and Night
The square is lovely during the day, but truly shines with lights after dark.
💰 Free Entry for Events
Many events, like the Winter Lights Festival, are free to attend.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Waiwharariki Anzac Square is highly praised for its vibrant event programming, particularly the magical Takapuna Winter Lights Festival. Visitors appreciate the free, accessible nature of these events and the lively atmosphere of the Sunday markets. Some find parking can be a consideration during peak festival times.
"Been there for Takapuna Winter Light Festival with Family. AT car park was free last night since we’ve got there after 6pm"
Ian Halim
"2024: Check it out at night, it's pretty."
Malcolm Young
"Winter lights is a must"
David guild
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Waiwharariki Anzac Square is located in Takapuna, Auckland. It's easily accessible by public transport, with bus routes serving the area. Driving is also an option, with several parking lots nearby.
Yes, there are parking options available. During events like the Takapuna Winter Lights, specific streets like Huron St, Northcroft St, and Byron Ave are recommended. Some parking may be free after a certain time.
Absolutely! Takapuna is well-served by public transport, making it easy to reach Waiwharariki Anzac Square via bus. Check local transport schedules for routes and times.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While entry to the Takapuna Winter Lights Festival is free, you must book a time slot online in advance. This helps manage crowd flow and ensures everyone gets a chance to experience the magic.
Waiwharariki Anzac Square is a public space and is generally accessible during daylight hours. However, specific events like the Winter Lights Festival have designated operating times, typically from 5 PM to 10 PM.
Many events held at Waiwharariki Anzac Square, including the popular Winter Lights Festival, are free to attend. It's always a good idea to check the specific event details for any potential costs or booking requirements.
📸 📸 Photography
For stunning photos, visit Waiwharariki Anzac Square during the Takapuna Winter Lights Festival in the evening. The illuminated art installations create a magical atmosphere.
During the Winter Lights Festival, the entire square becomes a canvas for light art, offering numerous unique and vibrant photo opportunities. The transformed space itself is a visual spectacle.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While the square itself might not have permanent food vendors, events like the Takapuna Winter Lights Festival or Sunday Markets often feature food stalls and trucks offering a variety of treats.
Food offerings vary by event. During festivals, you might find popular street food, snacks, and beverages. The Sunday Market also often has food vendors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
During the day, the Sunday Market can be an engaging experience for kids, offering unique items to discover and often a lively atmosphere. The open space of the square also provides room for children to move around. Consider bringing snacks or enjoying treats from the market vendors.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Exploring the Sunday Market is also a budget-friendly activity, allowing you to browse local crafts and goods without spending a dime. You can find affordable eats from market vendors or simply enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. The square itself is a pleasant public space to relax and soak in the local vibe without any expense.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of Takapuna Winter Lights
It's crucial to note that while the festival is free to attend, online booking for specific time slots is now essential. This measure helps manage visitor numbers and ensures a more enjoyable experience for everyone. Popular time slots can fill up quickly, so planning ahead is recommended.
Attendees are advised to dress warmly as winter evenings can be cool. The festival is designed to be fully accessible and free for all, making it a wonderful community event for families and individuals alike.
Waiwharariki Anzac Square: A Community Hub
The transformation of the space over time has been significant, creating an inviting environment for both organized events and casual visits. Its central location makes it easily accessible and a focal point for local activities. Whether you're looking for a morning workout, a unique craft, or simply a pleasant place to relax, Waiwharariki Anzac Square offers a diverse range of experiences.
Community feedback often highlights the square's versatility and its role in bringing people together. The ongoing development and programming ensure it remains a lively and engaging destination for residents and visitors.




Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit