New Zealand
Candlelight: The World of Joe Hisaishi – A Magical Music Experience in Auckland
This summer and early new year, Auckland will host one of the most atmospheric music events of the season —
Candlelight: The World of Joe Hisaishi.
Performed under the soft flicker of hundreds of candles, this tribute celebrates the work of the legendary
Japanese composer whose scores for Studio Ghibli films such as Spirited Away, My Neighbour Totoro, and Howl’s
Moving Castle have captured hearts around the world.
Two special performances are scheduled at St Mary’s in Holy Trinity, offering audiences a rare opportunity to
experience Hisaishi’s music live in one of Auckland’s most beautiful heritage venues.
Performance Dates & Venue
Venue: St Mary’s in Holy Trinity, Parnell, Auckland
Dates:
- Friday, 19 December 2025
- Saturday, 17 January 2026
Each concert will be performed by a string quartet surrounded by candlelight — creating a serene, dreamlike atmosphere that perfectly complements Hisaishi’s music.
About Joe Hisaishi
Joe Hisaishi is one of Japan’s most celebrated composers, best known for his long-standing collaboration with
filmmaker Hayao Miyazaki and Studio Ghibli.
His compositions blend classical structure with emotional storytelling, evoking nostalgia, wonder, and quiet
joy.
Audiences around the world recognise his themes from:
- Spirited Away (2001) – “One Summer’s Day”
- My Neighbour Totoro (1988) – “The Path of the Wind”
- Howl’s Moving Castle (2004) – “Merry-Go-Round of Life”
- Princess Mononoke (1997) – “Ashitaka and San”
- Kiki’s Delivery Service (1989) – “A Town with an Ocean View”
This Candlelight performance reimagines these beloved melodies in an intimate acoustic format — inviting listeners to rediscover their emotional depth and cinematic magic.
What Makes Candlelight Concerts Unique
Candlelight Concerts are designed to create immersive, multisensory experiences.
Every seat offers a close connection to the performers, enhanced by the warm glow of countless candles that
transform the venue into a peaceful sanctuary.
At St Mary’s in Holy Trinity, the combination of Gothic Revival architecture, soft acoustics, and the gentle
flicker of candlelight makes for a performance that feels deeply personal — as if the music were unfolding just
for you.
Programme Highlights (Expected Selection)
While setlists may vary slightly between dates, audiences can expect highlights such as:
- “One Summer’s Day” – Spirited Away
- “Merry-Go-Round of Life” – Howl’s Moving Castle
- “A Town with an Ocean View” – Kiki’s Delivery Service
- “The Path of the Wind” – My Neighbour Totoro
- “Ashitaka and San” – Princess Mononoke
Each arrangement captures the heart of Hisaishi’s music — delicate, emotional, and filled with quiet optimism.
St Mary’s in Holy Trinity – A Venue of Light and Sound
Located beside Auckland’s Holy Trinity Cathedral, St Mary’s in Holy Trinity is one of New Zealand’s most
stunning wooden Gothic churches.
Built in the 19th century, its high timber arches and soft acoustics make it a natural setting for candlelit
performances.
Audiences can expect a peaceful, reverent atmosphere — perfect for the reflective mood of Hisaishi’s
compositions.
Planning Your Visit
The venue sits in Parnell, close to cafés, restaurants, and green spaces such as the Auckland Domain. Given the limited on-site parking and evening start times, guests are encouraged to plan ahead:
- Arrive early to enjoy the venue's architecture and find your seat.
- Allow extra time for traffic if travelling from outside Auckland.
- Consider group transport to simplify travel and parking for multiple attendees.
- Dress smart casual – comfort and respect for the atmosphere go hand-in-hand.
Many guests extend the evening with a shared dinner or dessert nearby, turning the performance into a complete night out.
A Moment of Calm in a Busy World
Candlelight: The World of Joe Hisaishi is more than a concert — it’s an opportunity to pause.
Amid the pace of modern life, the candlelit setting and tranquil harmonies invite audiences to reconnect with
simplicity, emotion, and beauty.
The experience has drawn praise worldwide for its mindfulness appeal: music, light, and silence blend into a
rare sense of stillness.
Frequently Asked Questions
- When are the performances?
Two Auckland dates — 19 December 2025 and 17 January 2026 — at St Mary’s in Holy Trinity, Parnell. - How long does each concert last?
Approximately 65–75 minutes, with no interval. - Is the event suitable for
children?
Yes, though the atmosphere is best enjoyed by older children and adults who can sit quietly. - Are the candles real?
Venues typically use LED candles for safety, recreating authentic ambience without open flames. - Is there parking available?
Parking in Parnell is limited. Attendees are encouraged to use shared group transport.
