Fireworks, lights and racing delight Aucklanders during Anniversary Weekend

Steamboats Puke and Victoria during the Auckland Anniversary tugboat race. Photo / Brett Phibbs

Thousands flocked to the waterfront to bask in the sunshine and enjoy the best of Auckland Anniversary weekend.

The soaring temperatures did not deter the crowds.

The Tamaki Herenga Waka Festival started with a powhiri on Saturday before a waka parade glided through the glistening waters.

The Auckland Anniversary Day Regatta showcased a myriad of boats, from the tallest ships down to the smallest dinghies.

Dragon Boat racing in the Viaduct Harbour, in the Auckland Anniversary Day Regatta. Photo / Brett Phibbs

On Sunday night, the Auckland Symphony Orchestra brought the sounds of classical harmony to the waterfront.

The Ports of Auckland event also featured the Lady killers - Tina Cross, Suzanne Lynch and Jackie Clarke - who played songs such as Madonna's Prayer.

As dark settled in lasers streamed out above the audience lighting up the tallest buildings in the CBD before booming fireworks wowed the audience.

About 13,000 people, including Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, flocked to Laneway Festival yesterday to enjoy the music.

D.D. Dumbo, Amy Shark, BAYNK, Billie Eilish and Bonobo were a few of the performers in the line-up.

It was the second year the music festival was held at Albert Park.

The Bloodstock national Yearling sales continued yesterday in Karaka, packing punters into the auction room to bid on some of the country's best horses. The sales continue today.

Lot 216 Bay Colt plays up during the New Zealand Bloodstock National Yearling Sales held at Karaka. Photo / Dean Purcell

On Friday, a solar powered feat lit up the Harbour Bridge as 90,000 LED lights and 200 floodlights dazzled crowds.