Ponsonby Central Christmas Markets are one of many around the city. Photo / Radlab
Ponsonby Central Christmas Markets are one of many around the city. Photo / Radlab
Need some festive cheer? Herald Travel share the best Christmas Markets in Auckland to visit this December
When it comes to Christmas Markets, New Zealand’s summery climate means we’ll never be quite as enchanting as the events in Berlin, Strasbourg, London or Edinburgh.
However, this doesn’t stop us from putting on some of the best summery markets to celebrate the festive season.
It’s almost December and there have already been dozens of Christmas Markets across the city, but lucky for you it’s not too late to get amongst it and pick up some presents.
There are many Christmas Markets to check out this December in Auckland. Photo / General Collective
What better way to support the arts in Aotearoa than by purchasing Christmas gifts made by local artists? For a huge selection, head to Parnell’s Christmas Craft Harvest Market from 8am till 11.45am. On every Saturday from November 23 till December 21, you’ll have several opportunities to visit Jubilee Hall and browse high-quality handmade art and crafts from candles and clothing to art and decor.
Thursday, November 28
Christmas Night Markets — Tōtara Hospice, Manurewa
These Christmas markets aren’t like any old market; hosted by Tōtara Hospice, the annual event runs from 4.30pm to 9pm and profits go back into funding the hospice, which provides essential palliative care to those in need. Head over and enjoy more than 50 Christmas stalls, food trucks and carols.
German Christmas Market — The Crossing Community Centre, Titirangi
Some of the best Christmas markets in the world are in Germany. If you can’t make it to Europe this summer, the German Christmas Markets in Titirangi is the next best thing; especially if you’re a foodie. From Bratwurst to hot Glühwein (mulled wine), potato soup to Christmas candy, the markets have an impressive selection of edible (and non-food) treats to enjoy or purchase for gifts. Plus, Santa himself will make an appearance for photos, alongside three bouncy castles. From 3pm to 8pm.
German Christmas Markets in Titirangi. Photo / Facebook
Takapuna Christmas Festival — Waiwharariki Anzac Square
On the North Shore, you can also check out the freeTakapuna Christmas Carnival, which will run from 9am to 4pm on November 30. Expect market stalls selling food and crafts, Christmas-themed performances, games and a giant bouncy castle. After strolling through the dozens of stalls and grabbing a bite to eat, don’t miss getting a photo by the gigantic Christmas tree on Hurstmere Green.
Chow Luck Club Christmas Market — 261 Morrin Road, St Johns
Never heard of the Chow Luck Club Christmas Market? That’s because it’s the first one ever! From 10am to 3pm on November 30, this food-focused market will feature around 50 stalls selling delicious cuisines from local vendors. Think Hong Kong wonton noodles and Malay-style satay alongside nostalgic baked goods from Butter Baby and authentic Portuguese egg tarts.
Saturday, November 30 - Sunday, December 1
A Very Tasty Christmas Market – The Cloud, Queens Wharf
Yes, there is a $5 door charge for visitors over 12 years old, but we promise A Very Tasty Christmas Marketlives up to the name. Once you’re in, you’ll have access to a wonderland of gourmet treats like fresh gelato and locally-caught ceviche, boutique gin and loaded fries. After your tastebuds have been tempted, you can also peruse the many gift stalls selling jewellery, homewares and beauty products. Visit 10am till 5pm.
Sunday, December 1
Devonport Ethical Christmas Market — Devonport Community House, Devonport
Calling all earth-loving Kiwis! For the ultimate Christmas Market dedicated to ethical gifts and goodies, head to the Devonport Ethical Christmas Market from 10am till 3pm. This eco-conscious market showcases sustainable and ethically sourced items that are kind on the planet and perfect for gifting.
Britomart Christmas Night Markets — Takutai Square, Britomart
Britomart is bloody beautiful on a light summer evening and on Thursday, December 5, Takutai Square will come alive with festive stalls, food trucks and decorations from 4.30pm to 8pm. Come along to browse the stalls selling crafts and products, grab a takeaway bite to enjoy on the square’s grassy beanbags or just mooch around and enjoy the vibe as local DJs and entertainers fill the air with music.
Lean into Aotearoa’s beachy Christmas vibe by visiting the Orewa Christmas Twilight Market. From 5pm till 9pm, the square will light up with local crafts, food trucks, brass band carols and even a visit from Santa between 6.30 to 7.30pm.
Saturday, December 7
Ponsonby Christmas Market Day — Ponsonby Road, Ponsonby
For an oh-so-trendy Christmas Market, no place is better than Ponsonby. This year, General Collective has partnered with I Love Ponsonby to curate an epic lineup of live performers, stalls and entertainment, including Santa and his group of fairies. Plus, keep an eye out for the annual cheeky Santa that appears near Ponsonby Central. Stalls open from 10am till 2pm.
Karanga Plaza Christmas Market — Karanga Plaza & Park Hyatt Auckland, Wynyard Quarter
For a market with an artisanal spin, get to the Christmas Market appearing at Karanga Plaza and the Park Hyatt Auckland the weekend of December 7 and 8. Shop around the handcrafted gifts, try the family-friendly craft workshops and meet the famous man in the big red suit before grabbing some kai and enjoying the waterfront views. Check it out from 10am till 4pm.
Saturday, December 14
Silly Season Xmas Market — Basement Theatre, Auckland
Not every Christmas Market sells tooth gems, local zines, personalised poetry or upcycled clothing but you can bet a market hosted by Basement Theatre will. This year, the company is hosting a free afternoon market where you can purchase local and homegrown goods directly from Kiwi makers. For unique gifts that support artists, check it out from 12pm till 4pm.
The Basement Theatre's Christmas shows and market are not to be missed. Photo / Supplied
Italian Christmas Market — Mercatino Di Natale — Freeman’s Bay Community Centre, Freeman’s Bay
Whether you’re still reminiscing about your Euro summer or just need a hit of la dolce vita, the Italian Christmas Market is one to check out. Find your favourite Italian delicacies, such as pandoro, prosecco and panettone alongside non-edible (but equally delightful) goods, making it the perfect place to pick up Christmas meal goodies or gifts. Stalls will open from 10am till 2pm.
Catalina Christmas In The Bay — Catalina Bay Farmers Market, Hobsonville
Live music, face painting, food trucks and ocean views; you can find it all at Catalina Christmas In The Bay. Held over the weekend at Catalina Bay in Hobsonville, the annual markets will have its regular charming array of stalls selling handcrafted treasures and delectable treats. Plus, Santa will make an appearance alongside Gyorgi from Fantasy Face Painting.
Sunday, December 22
Christmas Market Matakana — Matakana Country Park Market
Summers are made for weekend trips to Matakana Market and on December 22 from 9am till 2pm, Aucklanders’ beloved farmers market is dressing up for Christmas. Not only will there be the regular fresh produce, coffee, pastries and preserves but Christmas-themed decor and homewares, clothing and crafts. Stock up for Christmas while the kids enjoy the bouncy castle, face painting, pony rides and mini train.
