Auckland is set to host a visually striking art experience when Helios, a monumental installation by UK artist Luke Jerram, arrives in the city for a limited season this March.
Running from 7-15 March 2026, Helios will transform the Auckland Town Hall Concert Chamber into a glowing, immersive encounter with our closest star. The six-metre-wide spherical artwork offers visitors a rare chance to experience the Sun up close – safely, scientifically, and spectacularly.
Constructed from approximately 400,000 images of the Sun’s surface, the installation combines astrophotography by Dr Stuart Green with data from NASA solar observations. Lit from within and presented at a scale of 1:230 million, Helios reveals extraordinary solar details such as sunspots, spicules and filaments, turning complex science into something instantly captivating.
Named after the ancient Greek and Roman sun god, Helios
The installation blends real solar imagery with animated lighting and an immersive surround-sound composition by Duncan Speakman and Sarah Anderson, creating a multi-sensory experience that feels both meditative and awe-inspiring.
Best of all, Helios is a free, non-ticketed event, open to everyone during venue opening hours. Co-commissioned by leading cultural institutions including National Trust, Cork Midsummer Festival, Liverpool Cathedral, Old Royal Naval College and University College London.
Genre: Visual Arts
Dates: 7-15 March 2026
Location: Concert Chamber, Auckland Town Hall
Price: Free – no tickets required
It’s not every day you get to stand face-to-face with the Sun – and honestly, we think this is one you won’t want to miss.
Proudly supported by Auckland Council through the city centre targeted rate, with delivery by Auckland Live as part of the Auckland Arts Festival.
