Auckland’s biggest backyard party returns as Aotea Square transforms for Auckland Live Summer in the Square. Jam-packed with entertainment, activities and events for everyone, the free programme runs from 1 - 23 December, before kicking off again from 9 January - 24 February, giving Aucklanders and visitors the chance to soak up live arts and entertainment experiences. 

Auckland Live director, Robbie Macrae, says Auckland Live Summer in the Square is a great time to be out and about, and enjoying the relaxed summer holiday vibe in the Aotea precinct. 

“The programme celebrates and showcases the many Auckland communities and people who come together every year to share what’s on offer, whether it’s singing, dancing, playing or just kicking back.” 
 
December and January bring an eclectic lineup of musicians and DJs from both New Zealand and abroad, while leading local arts companies will stage mini-shows and run workshops. Look out for lunchtime, evening and weekend open-air performances. Highlights include Trolleys - by acclaimed choreographer Shaun Parker - a street ballet using supermarket trolleys performed by The New Zealand Dance Company; a one-off performance by Massive Nui Ensemble; a lunchtime concert with New Zealand Opera; gigs by the likes of Circuit Des Yeux and Weyes Blood from the US; Julia Jacklin and Borneo from Australia; and homegrown favourites Tiny Ruins, Trip Pony and SoccerPractice;  and the IGNITE Weekend,  featuring some of Aotearoa’s brightest young musicians.

In January 2017, themed weekends kick off and will include all things retro at the Vintage Weekend, with markets, dance lessons, and an old-fashioned picnic contest; and a Latin Fiesta celebrating the rich and lively Latino culture with food, music, dancing and more across two stages. The mighty Civic and the magnificent Auckland Town Hall Organ share their secrets by allowing the public behind-the-scenes guided tours. Audiences can also watch the highly competitive champs battle it out at the Auckland Chess Centre Junior Rapid, get their hands dirty with Kai Auckland’s Gardening Workshops or take a Mercury e.bike for a spin in Aotea Square! 

The Aotea precinct will be dressed up for the summer season with its December centrepiece the two-storey high LEGO® Christmas Tree from 25 November – 27 December. A summery lawn will be rolled out for the whole series, complete with deck chairs, beanbags and shade awnings offering plenty of space to soak up the sights and sounds. Mini gardens, the Imagination Playground and various activities for everyone will be dotted around the main action, as well as a pop-up café and bar, adding to the culinary treats on offer in the Aotea precinct.
 
February full programme announcements coming soon.
 
Auckland Live Summer In The Square

 1 - 23 December: Aotea Square, Auckland - FREE

For the full programme visit www.aucklandlive.co.nz/event/summer-in-the-square