Free tickets are now available for the BNZ Auckland Lantern Festival 2026, with Aucklanders encouraged to book ahead for Aotearoa New Zealand’s largest cultural festival, returning to Manukau Sports Bowl this February.
The four-day festival, supported by Auckland Council Events, takes place from 26 February to 1 March, marking the conclusion of Chinese New Year celebrations and welcoming the Year of the Horse.
A centrepiece of this year’s festival will be the Year of the Horse lantern, created especially for the 2026 celebrations. The festival will also feature a new Kiwiana lantern, celebrating iconic elements of Aotearoa New Zealand.
The BNZ Auckland Lantern Festival will again operate as a free ticketed event, helping people plan their visit and enjoy the full festival experience. Tickets also include access to free public transport on buses and trains, making it easy to attend.
Festival travel and ticketing information
- Secure your free tickets by visiting aucklandnz.com/lantern
- Free travel is available for festival ticket holders on Auckland Transport buses and trains from two hours before the festival opens until the end of regular daily services. Simply show your ticket when boarding and keep it with you for the return journey.
- Free shuttle buses will also run regularly between Manukau Train Station, Westfield Manukau and the Manukau Sports Bowl before, during and after the festival.
Alongside more than 500 illuminated lantern displays, the festival will feature a programme of cultural performances and activations across the four days, including a strong K-pop presence, alongside traditional and contemporary performances celebrating Asian cultures.
Tātaki Auckland Unlimited Director of Destination, Annie Dundas, says the festival is an important part of Auckland’s Chinese New Year celebrations and a standout event on the region’s summer calendar.
“Each year, the festival brings communities together to celebrate culture, creativity and shared experiences. With tickets now available, we’re encouraging people to plan ahead and secure tickets so they can enjoy everything the four-day event has to offer.”
BNZ Executive Personal and Business Banking, Anna Flower, says, “The festival offers memorable experiences for people of all ages. From exploring the lanterns to enjoying performances and food, the BNZ Auckland Lantern Festival gives people the chance to be part of something special. We’re proud to support an event that’s free, welcoming and accessible for families and communities across the region.”
The BNZ Auckland Lantern Festival is family-friendly, smoke-free and alcohol-free.
What to expect at the BNZ Auckland Lantern Festival 2026
- More than 500 handmade lanterns, including the new Year of the Horse lantern.
- A new Kiwiana lantern celebrating iconic elements of New Zealand.
- A programme of traditional and contemporary cultural performances, including a strong K-pop presence.
- Shoot for the Stars at the BNZ Basketball Court, featuring skills sessions, guest appearances and giveaways.
- Mainstage performances viewed from the BNZ Grandstand.
- The Lantern Marketplace, featuring traditional clothing for hire, and traditional and contemporary art.
- Amusement rides for the whole whānau.
- 50 food stalls offering flavours from across Asia.
- 20 retail stalls selling gifts and merchandise.
- Most stallholders accept EFTPOS, but cash may be handy for some, and there is a cash-out trailer on-site.
- A spectacular fireworks display on each of the festival’s final three nights.
- Later opening hours, with the festival open daily from 4.00pm to 10.30pm.
Event details:
BNZ Auckland Lantern Festival 2026
Thursday, 26 February – Sunday, 1 March 2026
4.00pm – 10.30pm daily
Manukau Sports Bowl, Te Irirangi Drive, Manukau
aucklandnz.com/lantern
