This year's procession will feature lanterns representing Matariki, a star cluster signalling the Maori new year. They will form the front of the parade.
Behind them will be a Manawa kapa haka roopu performance and a swarm of hundreds of colourful and brightly-lit insect lanterns in the shape of moths, weta, worms and owls - the night creatures that are the parade's theme.
Carnival artistic director Juliet Novena Sorrel was pleased to have the presence of a kapa haka group for the first time.
"It is the beginning of a new relationship that will give us a really nice connection to the area."
Ms Sorrel said she hoped more than 10,000 people would turn out for the event.
"It just keeps getting bigger. It's a little bit scary for us, but we are prepared for it."
Live entertainment from Mama Yeva, more than 12 food stalls and dozens of dancers, drummers, stilt walkers and costumed participants will also feature.
Ms Sorrel said the carnival brought a "real drop of positivity" into winter. "It is a remedy for those dull wintery blues."
- Rebecca Ryan
