MOTAT’s Christmas Lights returns for 2025 – brighter and more magical than ever!
5 NOVEMBER 2025
TĀMAKI MAKAURAU AUCKLAND, NZ – MOTAT is lighting up summer nights once again with Christmas Lights, its most anticipated event of the year, returning for 12 spectacular evenings this December 2025 at MOTAT Great North Road. With over one million twinkling lights, immersive experiences and festive fun for all ages, this is a must-see event that promises to enchant tens of thousands of Aucklanders once more.
MOTAT’s Christmas Lights is a celebration of community, heritage and holiday spirit. The event transforms the museum into a fairy light wonderland, with sparkling displays across the MOTAT Village, heritage buildings, walkways, and even MOTAT’s iconic technology collection – including traction engines, the Pumphouse, blacksmith’s forge, and, of course, the trams, all adorned in festive twinkle thanks to the creative brilliance of La Lumiere.
From 1 December, the giant Christmas tree in front of the Pumphouse will be lit up each evening for all to see, heralding the event premiere on Friday 5 December.
MOTAT’s CE / Museum Director Craig Hickman-Goodall says: “We’re thrilled to bring the magic of Christmas Lights back to MOTAT once again. It’s a true highlight of the Tāmaki Makaurau festive season, and we warmly welcome visitors from across the region – and even further afield – to experience it.
“For many, it’s become a cherished part of their Christmas tradition. We can’t wait to see MOTAT transformed into a wonderland of twinkling lights and to watch the smiles light up the faces of our visitors as they create lasting memories with their friends and whānau.”
Event Manager Cheryl Masters says, “La Lumiere do an amazing job getting our site ready for Christmas Lights. The team works roughly 900 hours, over 10 days, in a three-week period to install fairy lights and light installations across our site. The iconic Light Tunnel is getting a spectacular makeover this year. Expect a stunning display of multi colour-changing shapes and designs - perfect for capturing that unforgettable photo moment.”
Highlights include:
A chance to visit Santa Claus in his workshop
A short ride aboard one of our festively illuminated trams
Carol singing in the MOTAT village by local choirs, with performances by West City Music groups and
Candy-making demonstrations by the beloved Lollyman
A food truck market offering delicious treats and drinks
Live entertainment from Santa’s Helpers roaming the museum grounds
Ngā whetū kapo wawata Wishing Stars – a digital experience to make your festive wish
The Model Christmas Village on display throughout December
Access to selected exhibitions including Kia Atamai Get Smart, Whakahohoro Accelerate, and
Whare Tinei Ahi The Fire Station
Technology in Action with operating traction engines, blacksmith demonstrations, and more
A pop-up MOTAT shop for memorable Christmas gifts
There’s even a low-sensory cottage for visitors needing a quiet moment
Whether you're snapping a selfie under the light tunnel, admiring the giant Christmas tree, or enjoying a late-night treat from the food truck market, this event is designed to delight and inspire. We’ve also asked our friends Bike Auckland to help with bike valet services each night, giving you more options for travelling to this event.
Rain or shine, MOTAT Christmas Lights is THE ticket to festive joy this summer.
Tickets go on sale 5 November 2025, don’t miss out, it will sell out.
EVENT DETAILS:
From 8pm to 11pm on these dates: Fri-Mon: 5-8, 12-15 and 19-22 December. Ticket prices: Adults $10; children (aged 5-15) $5; under 5s are free (but still must have a booked ticket). Entry: is from Stadium Road. Bookings are essential – there are NO DOOR SALES.
ENDS
Media Contact: Nicole Parish Communications Manager, MOTAT nicole.parish@motat.org.nz