Auckland’s popular Music and Movies in Parks events are back this summer, offering free entertainment to the public with no ticket required.
Music in Parks, which began last weekend and will run through 6 April, promises to bring an exciting variety of live performances to parks across the city. Over 50 local artists will perform in various genres, including blues, reggae, opera, rock, soul, and pop, creating the perfect soundtrack for the season. Most weekends will feature performances in different parks.
Pet owners can bring their dogs to the events, provided they follow the specific park rules. Dog owners are reminded to keep their pets leashed, especially around large crowds.
Details about park-specific dog rules can be found on the Auckland Council website.
Movies in Parks will run from 21 February to 15 March.
Apulu Reece Autagavaia, chair of the Ōtara-Papatoetoe Local Board, stressed the importance of making these events accessible to everyone in Auckland. “We all pay rates, so it’s important to ensure that the benefits are spread throughout the city, not just focused in the central areas,” he said. “These free outdoor movies give families a chance to enjoy entertainment together without the high costs associated with traditional cinemas.”
The event’s locations change each year, ensuring that different neighborhoods have the opportunity to participate. This year, Movies in Parks will be held at Ngāti Ōtara, with previous screenings taking place at places like Papatoetoe Reserve, Manukau, and the Sports Bowl.
The Movies in Parks programme is partially funded by local boards, allowing each board to select the films they wish to show. Apulu’s board chose the family-friendly movie Coco, hoping to introduce local audiences to its Hispanic themes. “Our growing South American community will feel represented, and we hope the food vendors reflect that as well,” he said, adding that tacos would likely be on offer.
Pre-movie entertainment will be provided, with activities to engage attendees before the movie begins.
Councillor Richard Hills, chairman of the Policy and Planning Committee, praised the series for featuring local talent and top movies. “These free events are a wonderful way for families to enjoy the long summer evenings, experience Auckland’s beautiful parks, and make lasting memories together—without breaking the bank.”
Music in Parks: South Auckland Locations
Music in Parks began last weekend with a performance at Maraetai Beach. Upcoming events include:
Opera in the Park: Auckland Botanic Gardens, Hill Road, Manurewa, Saturday, 1 February, 6-8pm.
Waitangi ki Manukau 2025: Barry Curtis Park, Flat Bush, Thursday, 6 February, 10am-4pm.
Music in Parks Papakura: Central Park, Papakura, Saturday, 22 March, 1-4pm. This event will feature Pasifika artists in collaboration with the Pacific Music Awards.
Movies in the Park: South Auckland Locations
Coco: Ngāti Ōtara Park, Ōtara, Saturday, 8 March, 6:15-10pm (pre-movie entertainment from 6:15pm, movie starts at 8:15pm).
The War With Grandpa: Central Park, Papakura, Saturday, 15 March, 6-9:45pm (pre-movie entertainment from 6pm, movie starts at 8pm).
These events offer the perfect opportunity to enjoy Auckland’s summer evenings with family, friends, and the local community.
Related topics:
