Changepoint Church have been running a Christmas lights event this last week each evening from December 14 to 22.

Starting about 8pm, the nights have run until late, culminating in two evening candle-lit services on Sunday December 23.

The church in Ohauiti started decorating their building with Christmas lights 16 years ago, only missing one year while completing some renovation work.

'Every year we've decorated we have had a choir,” says Linda Dishroon, 'and this is our sixth time doing a video gospel presentation.”

The building has been decked out with over 150,000 Christmas lights. Visitors have enjoyed a short film, followed by a free café with hot chocolate and chocolate brownies. Open to the whole community, the event has been flocked each evening by people keen to see the display and presentation.

We really believe that Christmas is a time when we can shine the light of Jesus Christ,” says Amy Dishroon, 'and let his name be known.”

Andrew Dishroon, Kim Jepsen and Raewyn Lund ready to greet people

The Changepoint choir leading carol singing

Sharon Hollander, Ruth Tuiraviravi and Renu Miller serving hot chocolate, tea and coffee

A large tent for hot chocolate, chocolate brownies and carol singing

Andrew and Amy Dishroon