A last minute budget shuffle has saved Christmas lights for parts of Auckland.

The Otara-Papatoetoe local board was tossing up whether it could afford to fund the lights again this year, but has now decided to put on two of the usual three shows.

Chairman Efeso Collins says it's a very expensive event, but finding a compromise is worth it.

He says it's something which both young and old members of the community look forward to, and come together to enjoy.