The Auckland Town Hall will glow with vibrant Diwali-themed light projections, while Aotea Square prepares for a spectacular fireworks finale as the 2026 BNZ Auckland Diwali Festival returns this weekend.
Scheduled for October 31 and November 1, the free festival will transform Auckland’s city centre into a celebration of Indian culture, featuring traditional and contemporary music, dance, visual arts, rangoli workshops, family activities and vegetarian food.
Media representatives are invited to cover the two-day event across Aotea Square, Queen Street, Rutland Street and surrounding venues, with opportunities for photography, filming and interviews with festival organisers, performers, musicians and food stall operators.
The festival’s opening ceremony will take place on Saturday from 11.30 am to 12.10 pm on the main stage at Aotea Square, ahead of the programme beginning at midday.
One of the key attractions will be three Indian Classical Music Showcase concerts at Auckland Town Hall on Saturday, scheduled for 3 pm, 4 pm and 5 pm.
Adding to the celebrations, Diwali-themed light projections will illuminate the Auckland Town Hall façade from Thursday to Sunday, between 8 pm and midnight. Special audiovisual shows combining animation, colour and music are scheduled for 8.54pm on both Saturday and Sunday.
The festival will conclude on Sunday evening with fireworks at Aotea Square at approximately 8.50pm, bringing the celebrations to a close at around 9.10pm.
Tātaki Auckland Unlimited Festival Event Manager Arnav Taode and Group Manager – Major Events Jep Savali will be available for interviews during the weekend. Interviews with performers, musicians and other participants can also be arranged subject to availability.
Media accreditation is required for coordinated access, interviews and support from the festival communications team. Media outlets are asked to register in advance, providing attendee details, their intended coverage and approximate arrival time.
The BNZ Auckland Diwali Festival will run from noon to 9 pm on Saturday, October 31, and from noon to approximately 9.10 pm on Sunday, November 1. Entry is free, with food available to purchase.
The full programme and visitor information are available at aucklandnz.com/diwali.