Aotea Square

Aotea Square is a public plaza beside Queen Street in central Auckland, with a lawn, a café and space to sit or watch city life. Art installations and events, including activities for children, bring the square to life at different times of year. It has also been a place for public protest and gatherings. Look for temporary installations, then take in the surrounding civic buildings, including Auckland Town Hall. Nearby cafés and terrace bars make it easy to add a break or meal to a walk through the city centre.

A public square in central Auckland

Aotea Square sits beside Queen Street in Auckland’s city centre. It was officially opened in 1979 and has since hosted open-air concerts, markets, community events and festivals. Public gatherings and protests are also part of its history.

The square’s open space gives you room to pause between city streets. There is a lawn, a café and places to sit, with nearby food options and terrace bars for extending a visit.

Art, events and nearby buildings

Installations and events vary over time. Past programmes have included interactive light and sound artworks, as well as activities for children during school holidays. Some installations invite people to move among or gently touch the artwork; follow any guidance provided for the event on the day.

Auckland Town Hall and the Aotea Centre are among the civic and cultural buildings around the square. Take a look at the surrounding architecture, then continue along Queen Street or explore the nearby cafés and bars. The square is open around the clock, though particular events may have their own schedules.