ISSUE
Friday, November 28, 2025
Volume 16 . Issue 87
After last year’s dazzling success, the award-winning Counties Energy Christmas Lights – Trains at Night event is steaming back into Franklin, ready to deliver another season of festive magic and community spirit. In 2024, the beloved tradition welcomed over 55,000 visitors, up from 40,000 the previous year.
This year’s celebration runs from 5–7 December and 11–23 December, with a special Sensory Friendly Night on 10 December to ensure a welcoming and inclusive experience for everyone.
Andrew Toop, General Manager Commercial and Corporate Affairs at Counties Energy, says the event remains a cherished highlight of the festive season and a testament to the long-standing partnership with Glenbrook Vintage Railway.
“Their passionate team of volunteers brings extraordinary heart and to every detail, and together we’re able to create an experience that truly brings our community together to celebrate the joy and magic of the season.”
He notes the dedication of the volunteers, whose hard work brings the experience to life and unites the community in celebrating the joy and magic of the season.
Visitors can stroll through glittering light displays, enjoy beautifully illuminated trains and the station, meet Santa, explore the Christmas market, and have fun at the free Counties Energy Kids Zone.
Adding to the spectacle, a six-metre-tall Christmas tree will create a stunning centerpiece for guests to admire. Trains depart at least every half hour from 6:30pm to 11:00pm, giving families plenty of opportunities to soak in the festive atmosphere.
Tickets:
Earlybird tickets are available online, with standard tickets also on sale at the gate.
For more information and to secure your tickets, visit www.gvr.org.nz
After last year’s dazzling success, the award-winning Counties Energy Christmas Lights – Trains at Night event is steaming back into Franklin, ready to deliver another season of festive magic and community spirit. In 2024, the beloved tradition welcomed over 55,000 visitors, up from 40,000 the...
After last year’s dazzling success, the award-winning Counties Energy Christmas Lights – Trains at Night event is steaming back into Franklin, ready to deliver another season of festive magic and community spirit. In 2024, the beloved tradition welcomed over 55,000 visitors, up from 40,000 the previous year.
This year’s celebration runs from 5–7 December and 11–23 December, with a special Sensory Friendly Night on 10 December to ensure a welcoming and inclusive experience for everyone.
Andrew Toop, General Manager Commercial and Corporate Affairs at Counties Energy, says the event remains a cherished highlight of the festive season and a testament to the long-standing partnership with Glenbrook Vintage Railway.
“Their passionate team of volunteers brings extraordinary heart and to every detail, and together we’re able to create an experience that truly brings our community together to celebrate the joy and magic of the season.”
He notes the dedication of the volunteers, whose hard work brings the experience to life and unites the community in celebrating the joy and magic of the season.
Visitors can stroll through glittering light displays, enjoy beautifully illuminated trains and the station, meet Santa, explore the Christmas market, and have fun at the free Counties Energy Kids Zone.
Adding to the spectacle, a six-metre-tall Christmas tree will create a stunning centerpiece for guests to admire. Trains depart at least every half hour from 6:30pm to 11:00pm, giving families plenty of opportunities to soak in the festive atmosphere.
Tickets:
Earlybird tickets are available online, with standard tickets also on sale at the gate.
For more information and to secure your tickets, visit www.gvr.org.nz
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