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Planning a day of discovery, a big night out, or a full 18 days of Festival immersion? Te Ahurei Toi o Tāmaki Auckland Arts Festival is yours to explore, with a mix of ticketed events and free experiences across the city.

This page is primarily focused on planning your Festival experience in central Auckland, including key venues, transport, dining, and accommodation. If you're looking for information on regional venues outside the city centre, head to our venues page for more details.

Navigating to the Auckland Arts Festival is straightforward with various transport options available:

Public Transport: Auckland's extensive network of buses, trains, and ferries makes commuting convenient. The CityLink bus offers a quick and affordable way to travel within the city center, connecting key areas and festival venues. For schedules and routes, visit Auckland Transport's website or use the AT Mobile app. - at.govt.nz

Cycling and Walking: For those nearby, consider biking or walking to the festival. Auckland provides numerous bike lanes and pedestrian-friendly paths, promoting a healthy and eco-friendly commute.

Driving and Parking: If driving, several parking facilities are available near festival venues. For instance, the Jellicoe Street Car Park at 65 Jellicoe Street is a short walk from the ASB Waterfront Theatre. Pre-booking is recommended to secure a spot. The closest car park to Aotea center is the civic carpark, easily accessible via Grey's avenue and offer early bird and all-day pricing. 

Plan your journey in advance to ensure a stress free experience at the Auckland Arts Festival.

The Terrace Cafe: Located inside the Aotea Centre, it is the perfect spot for a relaxed bite before your show. Offering a selection of fresh, seasonal dishes, light snacks, and barista-made coffee, it’s an easy and convenient dining option for festivalgoers.

Located less than 5 minutes away from the Spiegeltent and the ROVA Sound Graden, Grand Millennium Auckland offers a variety of dining experiences:

Ember: A contemporary bistro blending global culinary styles with New Zealand's seasonal ingredients.

Katsura Japanese Cuisine: An immersive dining experience featuring authentic Japanese dishes, including teppanyaki and fresh sushi.

Dans le Noir? : A unique sensory experience where guests dine in complete darkness, enhancing taste and smell.

The Aviary: A sophisticated bar offering a range of beverages, from morning coffees to evening cocktails. Choose from a range of classic cocktails or indulge in the specially created AAF cocktails available. 

Make your festival experience seamless with a stay at Grand Millenium Auckland, just a short 5-minute walk from Aotea Square, the heart of Auckland Arts Festival.

This premium hotel offers modern comfort, excellent dining options, and top-tier amenities, ensuring a relaxing retreat after a night of performances. Plus, with festival venues like Q Theatre and The Civic so close by, you’ll be right in the center of the action.

Book your stay and immerse yourself in the festival atmosphere!