Back for it’s third exhibition in Auckland, DARKLIGHT is a family friendly art experience using light, projections, screens and sculpture along with soundscapes to create an immersive environment.
The approach is akin to ‘Instagram-friendly’ digital art experiences that have gained popularity globally, such as teamLab Planets in Tokyo and Mercer Labs New York.
Visitors move through a series of interactive rooms and structures while being enveloped by audio-visual installations.
Following two previous sold-out seasons, the new experience is called The Hidden World and runs from 9–18 April 2026 at the Hunua Rooms inside the Aotea Centre in Auckland’s CBD.
The spectacular visual display is designed to be enjoyed by everyone of all ages, timed to be open over the school holidays.
The creation of independent lighting designer Angus Muir Design and event producer Dan Move, DARKLIGHT was born of the pair’s desire to offer something New Zealanders haven’t experienced before.
Known for his mesmerising works using light and illumination, Angus Muir’s designs have previously transformed events such as Bright Nights at Auckland’s Viaduct, the Matariki Festival in Auckland and LUMA light festival in Queenstown.
Muir says he wanted to create a journey through light and sound, and have it exist in an indoor environment, so it wouldn’t be at risk of unexpected weather events.
“Both Dan and I have been involved in many light festivals and events in New Zealand and the world for over 10 years and this is the culmination of all those experiences and learnings,” he said of his first DARKLIGHT presentation.
“It’s not just about seeing light and hearing sound; it’s about feeling them, being surrounded by them, and becoming part of the artwork”.
Co-presented by Auckland Live, DARKLIGHT: The Hidden World is running in conjunction with another interactive sculpture using the open space of Aotea Square.
Airship Orchestra is an interactive public art installation of 16 huge, colourful inflatable characters visitors can walk amongst, as they light-up, hum, blink and play music.
Created by award-winning Melbourne art and technology studio ENESS, the installation is in Aotea square until May 3, 2026.
Tickets to DARKLIGHT are available now.
