HBO Max casts Harry Potter spell over Sydney post office

HBO Max and Australia Post are transforming Sydney GPO into a Harry Potter-themed Owl Post Experience for one weekend as part of the global Back to Hogwarts celebration.

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The activation will run on Saturday 29 August and Sunday 30 August, giving fans the chance to write and send letters using quills and wax seals inspired by the wizarding world.

Inside the Sydney Owl Post experience

The Australia Post Sydney GPO at 1 Martin Place will host the experience from 11am to 5pm on both days. Visitors can also step inside a suspended “letter swarm” installation inspired by the scene in which Harry Potter tries to catch his Hogwarts letter.

For fans unable to attend, Australia Post will make a downloadable letter-writing template available through its website.

Sasha Mackie, senior director, marketing at Warner Bros. Discovery Australia and New Zealand, said the activation taps into one of the franchise’s most recognisable moments.

“For Harry Potter fans, few moments are as special as receiving a letter from Hogwarts. Through our partnership with Australia Post, the Owl Post Experience brings that magic to life, inviting fans of all ages to put quill to paper, send a little enchantment, and celebrate Back to Hogwarts, ahead of the HBO Original Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone series launch at Christmas.”

Josh Bannister, executive general manager, retail, brand and marketing at Australia Post, said the partnership brings the franchise into one of the postal service’s best-known locations.

“We’re delighted to partner with HBO Max to bring a touch of magic to one of Australia Post’s most iconic locations. The Owl Post Experience celebrates the joy of connection and the timeless tradition of letter writing, giving fans the chance to come together and share in the excitement inspired by one of the most iconic moments from a story loved by generations.”

Back to Hogwarts builds around September event

The Sydney activation leads into Back to Hogwarts on 1 September, the annual global fan event marking the fictional return of students to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.

The Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone film is also returning to Australian cinemas for its 25th anniversary. The limited screenings will include 12 minutes of behind-the-scenes footage being shown on the big screen for the first time, alongside nationwide retail activations.

The HBO Original series Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone is due to debut this Christmas on HBO Max.