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The BNZ Auckland Lantern Festival will return to Manukau Sports Bowl from Thursday, February 26, to Sunday, March 1, 2026, bringing four nights of light, culture and celebration to Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland.
Marking the end of Lunar New Year festivities and honouring the Year of the Horse, the festival will once again transform the venue into a vibrant showcase of lanterns, performances and fireworks. A newly designed horse lantern will feature as the centrepiece, symbolising energy, independence and creativity.
First held in 2000, the BNZ Auckland Lantern Festival is now the largest cultural festival in New Zealand, attracting more than 110,000 visitors each year to experience Chinese and Pan-Asian traditions, food and performances.
Tātaki Auckland Unlimited chief executive Nick Hill says the festival remains a cornerstone of Auckland’s cultural identity.
“The BNZ Auckland Lantern Festival is a celebration that truly reflects the spirit of Tāmaki Makaurau – creative, diverse and connected. Each year, it brings our communities together to share stories, traditions and the joy of experiencing something uniquely special under the glow of lanterns.”
BNZ chief executive Dan Huggins says the bank is proud to continue supporting the event.
“This festival is a highlight of Auckland’s summer calendar, drawing families and communities together in a truly special way. We’re honoured to play our part in bringing this celebration to life for another year.”
Festival-goers can expect more than 500 illuminated lanterns, around 900 performances, and 70 food and craft stalls, along with fireworks displays on Friday, February 27, Saturday, February 28, and Sunday, March 1 at approximately 9.50pm.
The 2026 festival is a free ticketed event, with ticketing and transport information to be announced later this year. The event is family-friendly, smoke-free and alcohol-free, offering activities from traditional arts and crafts to modern performances and a wide range of kai.
Event details
BNZ Auckland Lantern Festival 2026
Thursday, February 26 – Sunday, March 1, 2026
4pm – 10.30pm daily
Manukau Sports Bowl, Te Irirangi Drive, Manukau
Free ticketed event – further details to come: aucklandnz.com/lantern
