Free movie nights at Britomart build community in the CBD
• April 1, 2026
2024 film Beetlejuice Beetlejuice was chosen to be screened at Takutai Nights as a film for families but also as a nod to actress Catherine O'Hara who passed away on January 30, 2026. Photo: Supplied
After two successful years, the organisers of Takutai Nights are hoping to continue its movie nights for the Auckland community.
The free outdoor cinema in Takutai Square in Britomart screened five films in recent weeks.
The lineup included Bring It On (2000), Beetlejuice Beetlejuice (2024), Spirited Away (2001), Mauri Moana, a collection of short films by indigenous filmmakers, and Boy (2010).
Audience member Vince Ray saw the screening of Studio Ghibli’s 2001 film Spirited Away at the outdoor cinema.
“Everything [was] very positive,” he said.
Vince Ray, who is a travel content creator based in Auckland, had a positive experience at Takutai Nights. Photo: Supplied
"It is important as it makes us realise we should not live to work, and we deserve relaxation after a long day," he said.
Community events help bind friends and family and create a safe space, he said.
In the current economy it was important to have free events.
“May these events continue,” he said.
Sera Park, who attended Takutai Nights, says she really enjoyed the experience.
“It felt really special to see the community come together and enjoy a movie in that setting," she said.
Sera said it was a great event which was easily accessible, so people could stop on their way home from work.
“Especially since there aren’t always many things happening on weekdays in New Zealand."
Engagement manager at Britomart Group Tia Sagapolutele said it was the second year for Takutai Nights, which had proved very popular.
“It’s been the most requested thing from people on our socials."
She said the screenings had great turnouts, including Spirited Away, which looked like it had more than a thousand people watching.
Tia said community building was very important, and it was a privilege to run free events for the community.
“[It’s] just seeing everyone light up and smile and just have time to relax and enjoy themselves,” she said.
Tia said she believed there was a stigma that the city is dangerous, and people weren't makjng an effort to come into the city.
She said that Britomart Group are working to create spaces for the community to come and chill with friends and family and bring people into the city.
“We want to ensure that everyone is having fun, but also safe with each other.”
Tia said that the past week running Takutai nights “exceeded our expectations".
“[We are] definitely going to bring them back,” she said.
The five films from this year's Takutai Nights, which include Mauri Moana by Māoriland Film Festival, was a partnership between Britomart Group and the festival, celebrating Indigenous film makers. Photo: Ruth Jones
Takutai Nights' curation this year was all about iconic moments in cinema.
She said she wanted to have a range of different movies so that there was something for everyone.
Takutai Nights was launched last year, to celebrate 20 years of Britomart, where Britomart Group ran three nights at the outdoor cinema.
Last year marked two decades since the regeneration and restoration of Britomart.
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AI was used to transcribe audio from the interview.
