Halloween in Auckland: The best places to trick or treat

Wednesday, 30 October 2019

Thousands of Halloween revellers enjoyed themselves in Torbay, Auckland.

It's time to brush the dust off the costumes and stock up on sugary treats - Halloween is upon us.

Many Aucklanders will welcome youngsters trick or treating at their door on Thursday and some businesses and churches have put on special events to mark the holiday.

The Circle, in north Auckland's Manly, has a reputation for going all out on October 31 – making a safe and fun environment for families who want to celebrate.

Last year, siblings Georgia and Billy Dowd spent thousands of dollars decorating their house for the night.

'Spooktacular' activities will be held at the Howick Historical Village from 5pm until 8pm.

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They lived in the United Kingdom for eight years and brought the Halloween spirit back to New Zealand with them.

'It's always been the one holiday I've looked forward to. I like it more than Christmas to be honest,' Billy told Stuff in 2018.

Halloween can be controversial, with its popularity increasing in recent years in New Zealand.

The pair took time off university and school to set up their house after a month of planning, at a cost of about $2000.

They were inspired by horror movies to build a scene from a car crash and a kidnapping, based on the stereotype of white vans luring children in with lollies.

A street in Torbay on Auckland's North Shore is also a popular spot for the celebration – with about 2500 people swarming to it in 2018.

Alexander Ave resident Martin Siebrits said he and his family gave away about 14 kilograms of lollies, leading them to eventually run out of treats.

Residents have appealed for people to donate lollies to help ensure the same doesn't happen again this year.

Riverhead, in the city's north-west, organises a community event called the Riverhead Community Annual Fright Night.

Kids there trick or treat at homes that have registered as 'safe' or 'scare' houses.

Those taking part meet at the tennis court and are given a map of what houses they can go to.

But not everyone likes to have people knocking at their door – and for those who don't have anywhere to trick or treat, a number of parties are put on for the public to attend.

Remuera Baptist Church will open its doors from 5.30pm until 7.30pm for trick or treaters.

There will be bundles of free entertainment for those of all ages, including a magician, bouncy castle, face painting and a 'chocolate factory-themed adventure'.

'Spooktacular' activities will also be held at the Howick Historical Village from 5pm until 8pm.

It is a family friendly event with entertainment and activities, costing adults $22.50 and children $12 each to get in.

Big kids over the age of 18 can celebrate Halloween, without the trick or treating, at Howick's Basalt restaurant and bar from 8.30pm.

Attendees are asked to dress their best – or their worst, with prizes available for stand-out costumes.

Head here for more Halloween events in Auckland.