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Celebrating a Decade of Charitable Giving at MOTAT

Celebrating a Decade of Charitable Giving at MOTAT


Sparkling lights festoon the historic buildings, carollers are warming up and the Lolly man is planning festive treats to whip up – Christmas Lights, MOTAT Nights is almost here again! For the tenth year in a row, the Museum will be raising funds through this fun-filled event to buy Christmas presents for those less fortunate within our community.

MOTAT CEO, Michael Frawley confirms the beneficiaries of these gifts as Auckland Women’s Refuge and the Starship Foundation Community Star. Last Christmas the Museum was able to purchase gifts to the value of $76,000 which equated to more than 6,500 gifts for children in need across the city.

“The Festive Season should be a time to count our blessings and reach out a helping hand to those in need,” says Mr Frawley. “The generous response from our visitors always shows us that this heart-warming spirit is well and truly alive in Auckland.”

“MOTAT takes great pride in giving back to the Auckland community, this includes inspiring visitors and putting our efforts behind fantastic charitable initiatives such as this,” added Mr Frawley. “We are also grateful for the support of sponsors, La Lumiere, who have supplied additional Christmas lighting to make this experience bigger and better than ever before.”

As the countdown to Christmas begins, the Museum grounds are set to be transformed by twinkling fairy lights illuminating the streetscapes, trams and buildings. Night rides on MOTAT’s heritage trams offer a special vantage point to enjoy the festive scene. Children will be delighted to find Santa resplendent in the Band Rotunda while his elves roam the site keeping guests entertained.

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There will be a myriad of things to see and do with live entertainment, arts and crafts and horse-drawn carriage rides. Stores selling traditional Christmas treats such as mulled wine, cake pops and roasted nuts will leave guests spoilt for choice. They can even catch an outdoor festive movie on 18 - 24 December from 9pm or meander along Regent Street admiring the Christmas themed shop windows.

To add the festivities, the MOTAT Print Shop and Blacksmith Forge will be operating too. With so much to enjoy, it’s no wonder this event has grown to become a firm favourite on the seasonal calendar.

Visitors can share in the magic of Christmas Lights, MOTAT Nights every evening from 11 – 13 and 18 – 24 December (8 to 11pm). Entry is only $2 per person with all proceeds going towards buying gifts for charity.

ENDS


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