The BNZ Auckland Diwali Festival returns, lighting up Aotea Square, Queen Street, and Rutland Street with vibrant colour and joyful celebration on 11 and 12 October 2025.
Dive into a lively celebration of culture and creativity at this family-friendly festival, where traditional and contemporary performances light up three stages alongside theatre, music, dance, art, yoga and Bollywood films. With delicious vegetarian food, hands-on workshops for all ages, and a spectacular Sunday night fireworks finale, the event proudly remains smoke-free, alcohol-free, and entirely vegetarian.
Join the celebration
Train station performances | 7 - 9 OCT | Free
Catch free Diwali performances at Te Komititanga Square—bright music and dance bring festive vibes to the city and your commute.
Bollywood Photo Booth | 11 - 12 OCT | Free
Bring extra sparkle to your Diwali weekend at the Bollywood Photo Booth at Aotea Centre. Enjoy bright décor, playful props, and fun photo moments with whānau and friends.
Classical Indian Music | 12 OCT | Free
Experience the beauty of Classical Indian Music in an intimate setting at Auckland Town Hall. This free performance showcases the depth and elegance of one of the world’s oldest musical traditions.
Unwind and relax
Yoga Classes | 11 - 12 OCT | Free
Join Reha Kumar for free yoga workshops. Learn the history of this ancient Indian practice while enjoying guided flows, meditation and breathwork, open to all levels.
Living Arts chillout space | 11 - 12 OCT | Free
Relax and recharge at the free Living Arts Chillout Space at Aotea Centre. Immerse yourself in soothing sounds, gentle visuals, and peaceful meditation.
Central City Library | 19 - 20 OCT | Free
Drop into Central City Library to rest, recharge and explore. Enjoy a special Diwali story time, short films or learn a new skill with a hands-on embroidery workshop.
Lights that dazzle
Vector Lights Diwali 2025 | 4 - 12 OCT | Free
See the Auckland Harbour Bridge light up for Diwali from 4 – 12 October, 8pm–12am in every 30 minutes.
Town Hall Diwali Story projection | 4 - 12 OCT | Free
See Auckland Town Hall illuminated with vibrant artworks! These dazzling Diwali projections bring stories of light and celebration to life in the heart of the city.
Fireworks Finale BNZ Auckland Diwali Festival
Food BNZ Auckland Diwali Festival
Markets BNZ Auckland Diwali Festival
Live Shows BNZ Auckland Diwali Festival
BNZ Auckland Diwali Festival
Step into something special
Kundalini - The Awakening | 5 OCT | $20 - $45
Immerse yourself in a groundbreaking dance and music production rooted in the sacred wisdom of Tantra—a spiritual science that bridges the earthly and the divine. Through evocative movement and sound, the show explores how the human body mirrors the cosmos, guiding seekers toward self-realization and the expansion of consciousness. Click here for more information.
Bollywood Meets Jazz | 7 OCT | $30 - $50
Immerse yourself in this trailblazing musical fusion, debuting in Aotearoa with jazz maestro Ben Fernandez and the dynamic Auckland Jazz Orchestra. Iconic Bollywood songs are transformed through vibrant jazz arrangements, blending rich harmonies and rhythmic improvisation. It’s an electrifying journey where East meets West in sound. Click here for more information.
Miss IndiaNZ | 10 OCT | $32 - $62
Miss IndiaNZ is back at Auckland Town Hall, promising a dazzling evening of tradition, storytelling, and style. More than just a pageant, it’s a celebration of cultural pride and self-expression, spotlighting rising talent in acting, modelling, and performance. With local dancers, singers, and musicians lighting up the stage, it’s a vibrant showcase of Aotearoa’s creative spirit. Click here for more information.
Ram Leela | 11 OCT | $25 - $40
Experience an epic retelling of the Ramayana brought to life by over 100 performers in dazzling costumes and breathtaking choreography. This powerful production weaves Bharatanatyam, classical, and folk dance with theatrical storytelling, guiding audiences through Lord Rama’s journey and the timeless triumph of good over evil. Click here for more information.
Lucky Ali | 12 OCT | $79 - $159
Embark on a musical journey with iconic Indian singer-songwriter Lucky Ali, as he performs his greatest hits and soulful anthems live. With a career spanning over 30 years, his signature voice and acoustic storytelling have made him a cultural icon across generations. This magical performance is a must for lovers of world music, timeless songwriting, and soulful expression. Click here for more information.
Bollywood meets jazz BNZ Auckland Diwali Festival
Lucky Ali BNZ Diwali Festival 2025
Miss IndiaNZ BNZ Auckland Diwali Festival
Ram Leela BNZ Auckland Diwali Festival 2025
Image via qtheatre.co.nz
BNZ Auckland Diwali Festival is an Auckland Council Event, delivered by Tātaki Auckland Unlimited, a council-controlled organisation. Click here to see the full programme.
Your guide to accessing the city centre
With lots to do and see in the city, it’s helpful to know how best to get in and travel around.
We have guides on the best ways to get in, out and around on public transport - it's cheaper and easier than you think!
If you're driving in, here is a guide on which car parking buildings to use when visiting different areas of the city centre - whether it be Downtown, the waterfront or Midtown!
