Where To Eat (And Park) Before The Takapuna Winter Lights Festival

Shore City Shopping Centre combines some of the best places to eat in Takapuna with convenient parking for Winter Lights Festival visitors, making it the ideal stop before the festivities begin. Whether you're grabbing a quick snack, enjoying a warm family dinner or looking for a hassle free parking option close to the action, here's how to make the most of your night out.  

The Takapuna Winter Lights Festival is set to turn the central square into a glowing wonderland of interactive art and family fun. While chilly Auckland nights are perfect for celebrating, hunting down a car park while managing hungry children can quickly ruin the excitement.  

Luckily, Shore City Shopping Centre provides the perfect basecamp right next to the action. 

This handy planning guide shares the best places to eat in Takapuna and how to secure parking for the Takapuna Winter Lights Festival like a local. Let’s dive into some restaurant recommendations and parking tips you need to know before the lights turn on. 

Where To Grab a Quick Snack Before The Festival? 

If getting everyone out of the house was a mission, a quick pre-festival snack is your best bet. The upper level of Shore City hosts fantastic light meal options to fuel your family before heading to the fun. We recommend these places to eat in Takapuna: 

• Kota Cafe: Enjoy hot coffee with a savoury Bulgarian goat cheese tart or a sweet cashew slice to go.
• Majestic Tea Bar: Warm up before heading into the cold air with a decadent Belgian hot chocolate and a side of banoffee crepes. 
• Tank: Select a nutritious smoothie with a fresh wrap for a natural energy boost. 

Where Can You Sit Down for a Warm Dinner in Takapuna? 

Sitting down for a hot meal is the perfect way to prepare for the Winter Festival of Lights. Our food court has a variety of options to keep your group warm before the show starts. Here’s our list of the best places to eat in Takapuna for a hearty family meal: 

• Kyoto: Indulge in authentic Japanese flavours with a bento box or a steaming bowl of made to order noodle soup. 
• Wicked Chicken: Treat the kids to crispy, perfectly seasoned chicken pieces that are tasty and easy to eat.
• Buns n Rolls: Warm up with traditional Vietnamese street food, featuring vegan bao buns and steaming bowls of pho.  

How To Secure Parking for The Winter Lights Festival in Takapuna 

Organising your travel plans early will save you time once the festival crowds arrive. Avoid dodgy street side parking by using these simple parking and travel tips:  

• Free Parking: Enjoy two hours of free undercover parking at Shore City to keep your car dry and safe while you enjoy the lights. 
• Contactless Entry & Payments: Shore City uses a ticketless licence plate recognition system. Simply enter your registration number at a pay station before leaving, and the gate will automatically open as you exit.  
• Public Transport: A pro tip is to skip driving entirely by catching a bus to the stop right outside the Farmers’ entrance.  

Heading to the Takapuna Winter Lights Festival? Start your evening at Shore City Shopping Centre and discover some of the best places to eat in Takapuna before enjoying convenient parking for Winter Lights Festival visitors. Plan your visit today and enjoy a stress free night of food, family fun and spectacular lights.  

FAQS

Where can I find good places to eat in Takapuna before the lights festival?

You can visit Kyoto, Buns n Rolls, or Wicked Chicken at Shore City Shopping Centre for a warming, family-friendly meal right next to Waiwharariki Anzac Square. 

Where is the most convenient parking for Winter Lights Festival visitors?

Shore City offers secure undercover parking with two hours of free parking, allowing you to walk straight to the festival gates without worrying about street side limits. 

Can I take public transport to the Takapuna festival instead of driving?

Yes, Shore City has main bus stops located right outside the Farmers' entrance on Lake Road, making it easy to catch local buses directly to and from the event area.