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The 2026 Auckland Inaugural Asia-Pacific UniFest concluded with great success!
The 2026 Auckland Inaugural Asia-Pacific UniFest concluded with great success!— A Report on the event Co-hosted by the Auckland Asian Association and the Chinese Women Association of New Zealand .
March 21, 2026, marked Race Relations Day. As in previous years, Auckland Council launched its two-week “World of Cultures” festival from March 21 to April 5. What set this year apart was that the opening day’s “Asia-Pacific UniFest” was jointly presented by the Auckland Asian Association and the Chinese Women Association of New Zealand making it especially eye-catching.
At 9:00 a.m. on 21 of March, four giant red lanterns were suspended high in front of the entrance to the Ōtāhuhu Community Centre. Two small lion figures—one red and one yellow—stood guard on either side, radiating festivity. Passersby could immediately tell that a vibrant celebration of Asian culture was underway.
Inside the foyer, eight elegantly dressed hostesses warmly welcomed arriving guests. On the central stage, the words “Asia-Pacific UniFest” stood out prominently against a sky-blue backdrop. At 10:00 a.m., the event commenced on schedule, co-hosted by Elma, Kelly, and Tai Thanh. Performances including a Vietnamese folk dance, a Nepali guitar-and-vocal piece, and a Japanese ocarina solo followed in succession, creating a rich tapestry of cultural expression.
At 10:30 a.m., dignitaries and guests were ushered to their seats. Among them were National Party MP Carlos Cheung, Rima Nakhle; Labour Party MP Hon Carmel Sepuloni, Hon Deborah Russell; ACT Party MP Parmjeet Parmar; New Zealand Police Assistant Commissioner Tim Anderson; Ethnic Services Manager Andrew Lui. The atmosphere was both formal and festive.
At 10:45 a.m., a 14-member lion dance troupe propelled the event into its first peak. To the audience’s delight, the opening drumbeat was performed by a six-year-old child. The troupe itself reflected cultural diversity, comprising not only Chinese performers but also members from Pacific Island communities. The highlight, “Lions Crossing the Bridge,” was both thrilling and symbolic: a large red lion leapt onto a “bridge” formed by a row of red benches, encouraging a hesitant smaller lion to follow. The two lions danced and balanced skillfully on the narrow surface, with the larger lion even standing upright to pluck two “peaches of longevity” hung high above, then feeding them to the smaller lion—an auspicious symbol of progress and prosperity. The performance drew waves of applause.
At 11:00 a.m., a respected Māori elder took the stage and led all attendees in a solemn Karakia (Māori prayer), officially opening the event. This was followed by speeches from MPs Carlos Cheung, Rima Nakhle, Carmel Sepuloni, and Parmjeet Parmar, as well as Assistant Commissioner Tim Anderson. Steven Huang, Vice President of the Auckland Asian Association, gave a special introduction of Tim Anderson and invited the audience to applaud in recognition of his leadership.
Next, Bella Tamotu, Manager of the Ōtāhuhu Community Centre, introduced the local Pacific Island communities and emphasized the importance of strengthening cultural exchange between Asian and Pacific communities. She also led the audience in a traditional Samoan interactive ritual, with rhythmic hand movements and chants that quickly energized the crowd.
Tina Hu, President of the Chinese Women Association of New Zealand , then spoke about the organization’s development and its four flagship initiatives: the Starlight Arts Troupe, the Diana Fashion Show, the Air Volleyball Federation, and the Mrs. World Pageant. Maria Pooley, President of the Auckland Asian Association, delivered a brief but impactful concluding address. All distinguished guests later gathered on stage for a group photo.
At 11:45 a.m., a Cook Islands dance troupe delivered a vibrant opening performance. Two powerful male dancers burst onto the stage to the beat of drums, exuding strength and rhythm. They were followed by graceful female dancers whose fluid movements created a striking contrast. During the interactive segment, several Members of Parliament were invited on stage to join the dance. Their earnest yet slightly awkward moves drew laughter and pushed the atmosphere to yet another peak.
The performances continued through to 3:30 p.m., featuring music and dance from China, India, Nepal, Tonga, Samoa, and Korea. Highlights included jazz dance and a fashion show by the Starlight Arts Troupe; a choir and runway presentation by the Starlight Arts choir Troupe; a powerful mezzo-soprano solo by Lily; interactive dance by Sarah; a Sichuan opera “face-changing” act performed by Indian children; Bollywood dance by a young Indian performer; and Samoan and Hawaiian dance interactions. Each act brought fresh excitement, with one peak following another, leaving the audience deeply moved.
Outside the venue, a food area showcased flavors from Thailand, the Philippines, and Vietnam. Around midday, performers, volunteers, and visitors gathered to enjoy the diverse cuisine and share in the joy of cultural exchange.
During a break, Bella also invited volunteers to participate in a Samoan weaving workshop, offering them a hands-on cultural experience.
At 3:30 p.m., the event concluded to the passionate rhythms of a “Torero”-style performance by the Starlight Arts Troupe drum team. MC Elma announced the successful conclusion of the festival, expressing gratitude to all performers, volunteers, and the organizing committee, also the medias. All staff gathered on stage for a final group photo, marking a memorable and meaningful cultural celebration.
Acknowledgements to our collaborators and media partners：New Zealand International Student Association Inc., New Zealand Youth Federation Inc., Kiwi Chinese Association Inc.,Epsom Chinese Association Inc., Chinese Net, Chinese Headlines, Suxiang Workshop, Sakura TV Network, New Zealand Papers,
Written by: Steven HuangPhotos by: Uncle Sun
March 21, 2026, marked Race Relations Day. As in previous years, Auckland Council launched its two-week “World of Cultures” festival from March 21 to April 5. What set this year apart was that the opening day’s “Asia-Pacific UniFest” was jointly presented by the Auckland Asian Association and the Chinese Women Association of New Zealand making it especially eye-catching.
At 9:00 a.m. on 21 of March, four giant red lanterns were suspended high in front of the entrance to the Ōtāhuhu Community Centre. Two small lion figures—one red and one yellow—stood guard on either side, radiating festivity. Passersby could immediately tell that a vibrant celebration of Asian culture was underway.
Inside the foyer, eight elegantly dressed hostesses warmly welcomed arriving guests. On the central stage, the words “Asia-Pacific UniFest” stood out prominently against a sky-blue backdrop. At 10:00 a.m., the event commenced on schedule, co-hosted by Elma, Kelly, and Tai Thanh. Performances including a Vietnamese folk dance, a Nepali guitar-and-vocal piece, and a Japanese ocarina solo followed in succession, creating a rich tapestry of cultural expression.
At 10:30 a.m., dignitaries and guests were ushered to their seats. Among them were National Party MP Carlos Cheung, Rima Nakhle; Labour Party MP Hon Carmel Sepuloni, Hon Deborah Russell; ACT Party MP Parmjeet Parmar; New Zealand Police Assistant Commissioner Tim Anderson; Ethnic Services Manager Andrew Lui. The atmosphere was both formal and festive.
At 10:45 a.m., a 14-member lion dance troupe propelled the event into its first peak. To the audience’s delight, the opening drumbeat was performed by a six-year-old child. The troupe itself reflected cultural diversity, comprising not only Chinese performers but also members from Pacific Island communities. The highlight, “Lions Crossing the Bridge,” was both thrilling and symbolic: a large red lion leapt onto a “bridge” formed by a row of red benches, encouraging a hesitant smaller lion to follow. The two lions danced and balanced skillfully on the narrow surface, with the larger lion even standing upright to pluck two “peaches of longevity” hung high above, then feeding them to the smaller lion—an auspicious symbol of progress and prosperity. The performance drew waves of applause.
At 11:00 a.m., a respected Māori elder took the stage and led all attendees in a solemn Karakia (Māori prayer), officially opening the event. This was followed by speeches from MPs Carlos Cheung, Rima Nakhle, Carmel Sepuloni, and Parmjeet Parmar, as well as Assistant Commissioner Tim Anderson. Steven Huang, Vice President of the Auckland Asian Association, gave a special introduction of Tim Anderson and invited the audience to applaud in recognition of his leadership.
Next, Bella Tamotu, Manager of the Ōtāhuhu Community Centre, introduced the local Pacific Island communities and emphasized the importance of strengthening cultural exchange between Asian and Pacific communities. She also led the audience in a traditional Samoan interactive ritual, with rhythmic hand movements and chants that quickly energized the crowd.
Tina Hu, President of the Chinese Women Association of New Zealand , then spoke about the organization’s development and its four flagship initiatives: the Starlight Arts Troupe, the Diana Fashion Show, the Air Volleyball Federation, and the Mrs. World Pageant. Maria Pooley, President of the Auckland Asian Association, delivered a brief but impactful concluding address. All distinguished guests later gathered on stage for a group photo.
At 11:45 a.m., a Cook Islands dance troupe delivered a vibrant opening performance. Two powerful male dancers burst onto the stage to the beat of drums, exuding strength and rhythm. They were followed by graceful female dancers whose fluid movements created a striking contrast. During the interactive segment, several Members of Parliament were invited on stage to join the dance. Their earnest yet slightly awkward moves drew laughter and pushed the atmosphere to yet another peak.
The performances continued through to 3:30 p.m., featuring music and dance from China, India, Nepal, Tonga, Samoa, and Korea. Highlights included jazz dance and a fashion show by the Starlight Arts Troupe; a choir and runway presentation by the Starlight Arts choir Troupe; a powerful mezzo-soprano solo by Lily; interactive dance by Sarah; a Sichuan opera “face-changing” act performed by Indian children; Bollywood dance by a young Indian performer; and Samoan and Hawaiian dance interactions. Each act brought fresh excitement, with one peak following another, leaving the audience deeply moved.
Outside the venue, a food area showcased flavors from Thailand, the Philippines, and Vietnam. Around midday, performers, volunteers, and visitors gathered to enjoy the diverse cuisine and share in the joy of cultural exchange.
During a break, Bella also invited volunteers to participate in a Samoan weaving workshop, offering them a hands-on cultural experience.
At 3:30 p.m., the event concluded to the passionate rhythms of a “Torero”-style performance by the Starlight Arts Troupe drum team. MC Elma announced the successful conclusion of the festival, expressing gratitude to all performers, volunteers, and the organizing committee, also the medias. All staff gathered on stage for a final group photo, marking a memorable and meaningful cultural celebration.
Acknowledgements to our collaborators and media partners：New Zealand International Student Association Inc., New Zealand Youth Federation Inc., Kiwi Chinese Association Inc.,Epsom Chinese Association Inc., Chinese Net, Chinese Headlines, Suxiang Workshop, Sakura TV Network, New Zealand Papers,
Written by: Steven HuangPhotos by: Uncle Sun
Auckland Asian Festival
From 11 to 12 October 2025, the Asian Festival—an event that has been held continuously since 1997 for 28 years - was grandly staged at the Auckland Showgrounds in New Zealand. This year’s festival was organised by Philippine media, with AMI as the principal sponsor and the Auckland Asian Association participating in part of the co-organisation. As an annual highlight for Auckland’s Asian community, which makes up one third of the city’s population, the Asian Festival is second in scale only to the Auckland Lantern Festival and has become a shining emblem of local multicultural exchange.
Last year’s event attracted more than 80,000 attendees. This year, over two days, the festival reached new heights, drawing close to 100,000 visitors in total.
The opening ceremony began with an energetic lion dance performed by the Epec Lion Dance Team. Speeches were delivered by Queen’s Service Medal recipient and former Greater Auckland Police Manager for Ethnic Affairs, Jessica Phuang, and Justice of the Peace and Vice President of the Auckland Asian Association, Steven Huang.
The opening ceremony began with an energetic lion dance performed by the Epec Lion Dance Team. Speeches were delivered by Queen’s Service Medal recipient and former Greater Auckland Police Manager for Ethnic Affairs, Jessica Phuang, and Justice of the Peace and Vice President of the Auckland Asian Association, Steven Huang.
As Steven noted in his address:“This is a festival filled with colour, creativity, and community spirit - a celebration of our identities and achievements. The Asian Festival not only showcases the rich diversity of Asian cultures, but also promotes the shared values that connect us all: respect, harmony, and the belief in working together to build a better future.”
He placed particular emphasis on the Chinese community’s pride in its cultural heritage. Values such as diligence, and a strong commitment to family and education, have enabled countless Chinese New Zealanders to contribute positively to the country they love—across economic, cultural, and international exchange spheres. The Asian Festival reminds us that diversity is not a symbol of division, but a source of strength. When we share music, food, and stories, we are also building bridges of understanding and friendship.
He placed particular emphasis on the Chinese community’s pride in its cultural heritage. Values such as diligence, and a strong commitment to family and education, have enabled countless Chinese New Zealanders to contribute positively to the country they love—across economic, cultural, and international exchange spheres. The Asian Festival reminds us that diversity is not a symbol of division, but a source of strength. When we share music, food, and stories, we are also building bridges of understanding and friendship.
At the opening ceremony, the dance “China in the Glow of Lights”, presented by the Starlight Arts Troupe of the New Zealand Chinese Women’s Federation Foundation, captivated the audience. This was followed by the Chinese folk dance “Encounter” performed by the Epsom Chinese Association. After an Indonesian folk dance, the Mingyue Dance Group, the Remuera Dance Group, and the Baihua Arts Group took the stage in succession. The Baihua Chinese Folk Music Ensemble showcased the unique charm of traditional Chinese music using instruments such as the sheng, dizi, zhonghu, zhongruan, erhu, and yangqin. One overseas audience member even asked with curiosity, “Is Chinese folk music composed using the five-line staff?” This genuine interest perfectly embodied the true spirit of cultural exchange.
On stage, the brilliance of multicultural performances unfolded one after another: the graceful movements of Indonesian ethnic dances, the elegance and solemnity of Cambodian royal court dance, the passionate performances of popular Filipino singers, the exotic flair of a Sri Lankan fashion show, the light and expressive solo dance from Bangladesh, and the timeless classical beauty of traditional Korean dance—all delighting the audience.
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A particularly delightful surprise was the African drumming performance by the Starlight Arts Troupe’s African Drum Team, which had been established for only six weeks. Stepping in at short notice to replace another act, they delivered a powerful and memorable performance. The resonant rhythms and stirring drumbeats transported the audience to the vast African savannah, where spirits seemed to run free with the pulse of the drums.
On the second day, performances once again opened brilliantly with Chinese community groups. The Onehunga Chinese Association presented a lively and festive Yangge dance; the Aiw Dance Association performed a charming and energetic Miao ethnic dance; and the Sunnynook Chinese Association offered a creative Yi ethnic dance. The Aiw Dance Association also gave a live interview to Philippine media on site.
The two-day festival featured a rich programme beyond stage performances, including food stalls, tourism displays, insurance and health consultations, real estate showcases, and cultural information exhibits. The exhibition centre was bustling with visitors, the performance areas were packed, and long queues formed in front of food stalls amid laughter and cheerful chatter. The car park filled up early, and even from outside the venue, the vibrant atmosphere testified to the festival’s immense popularity.
The Asian Festival is not only a showcase of the cultures of diverse Asian communities, but also a bridge for communication and mutual understanding among different ethnic groups.We look forward to gathering again next year, at this festival that belongs to all Asians, to once more witness the power of diversity and inclusion.
The two-day festival featured a rich programme beyond stage performances, including food stalls, tourism displays, insurance and health consultations, real estate showcases, and cultural information exhibits. The exhibition centre was bustling with visitors, the performance areas were packed, and long queues formed in front of food stalls amid laughter and cheerful chatter. The car park filled up early, and even from outside the venue, the vibrant atmosphere testified to the festival’s immense popularity.
The Asian Festival is not only a showcase of the cultures of diverse Asian communities, but also a bridge for communication and mutual understanding among different ethnic groups.We look forward to gathering again next year, at this festival that belongs to all Asians, to once more witness the power of diversity and inclusion.
Auckland Kurdish Community Celebrates Nowruz Day
Article: Steven Huang | Photos: Susan Li, Steven Huang | March 9, 2025
Several dignitaries attended the celebration and delivered heartfelt speeches, including New Lynn electorate National MP Paulo Garcia, Kelston electorate Labour MP Hon Carmel Sepuloni, and Te Atatu electorate Labour MP Hon Phil Twyford. They warmly welcomed the Kurdish community in New Zealand and expressed their joy in celebrating Nowruz together. Also in attendance were Whau Local Board Chair Kay Thomas, Jessica Pan, the New Zealand Police’s Auckland Ethnic Affairs Director, as well as representatives from the Ministry for Ethnic Communities and various minority groups
On March 9, 2025, the Auckland Kurdish community gathered at the New Lynn Community Centre to celebrate Nowruz with great enthusiasm. Hosted by the New Zealand Zoroastrian Association, the event attracted Kurds from across Auckland, all dressed in their finest traditional attire. The venue was packed with attendees, creating a lively and festive atmosphere.
The event featured three main segments: cultural performances, an introduction to Nowruz, and a shared dinner. The audience enjoyed a diverse lineup of performances, including Kurdish folk dances, Iranian national dances, Persian classical dance, traditional Tombak drum performances, and solo renditions of Iranian folk songs. A highlight of the evening was the mesmerizing dance performance by young Iranian men and women. Their exquisite features, complemented by vibrant and uniquely styled traditional costumes, combined with their graceful and natural movements, radiated youthful energy. The audience applaud and cheer enthusiastically. Additionally, a visually engaging slideshow with narrated explanations provided guests with a deeper understanding of the origins and traditions of Nowruz.
Nowruz: A Celebration of Spring and Renewal
“Nowruz” in Persian means “New Day” (Now = New, Ruz = Day), symbolizing the arrival of spring and the triumph of light over darkness. With origins dating back over 3,000 years to the Zoroastrian era of the ancient Persian Empire, Nowruz is traditionally celebrated on the spring equinox (March 21). Today, it is a major festival observed in Iran, the Middle East, Central Asia, the Caucasus, and even Xinjiang, China.
Much like the Chinese New Year, Nowruz lasts between 3 to 15 days and includes many rich traditions. On the eve of the festival, families gather around a feast symbolizing prosperity in the coming year. Homes are thoroughly cleaned, and new clothes are worn to signify a fresh start and purification. The Haft-Seen table is set with seven symbolic items, including sprouted grains representing rebirth and sweet pudding signifying abundance. The fire-jumping ritual is performed to ward off bad luck and welcome renewal. Traditional delicacies, such as Sumalak sweet wheat pudding, are enjoyed as a symbol of spring’s arrival. Festivities also include cultural performances, poetry recitations, music, and street celebrations, showcasing the diversity of traditions associated with Nowruz.
Beyond its cultural significance, Nowruz embodies a universal aspiration for peace, prosperity, and renewal. As a celebration of unity and diversity, it strengthens bonds among families, communities, and even nations. Recognizing its global importance, the United Nations General Assembly has designated March 21 as “International Nowruz Day.”
The Kurdish Community in New Zealand
The celebration also provided an opportunity to introduce the Kurdish people and their community in New Zealand. The Kurds are an Iranian-speaking ethnic group native to West Asia, primarily residing in Turkey, Syria, Iraq, and Iran. With an estimated population of 30 million, they are the fourth-largest ethnic group in the Middle East and the world’s largest stateless nation.
The Kurds have a rich history, traditionally living in the mountainous region of Kurdistan as nomads and mercenaries before gradually expanding to surrounding areas. However, they have long faced oppression in the countries they inhabit. In Syria, Kurdish cultural expressions, including traditional dress, festivals, and publications, were once entirely banned. Turkey has historically suppressed Kurdish uprisings, and prior to 1991, the word “Kurd” itself was prohibited, forcing Kurds to identify as “Mountain Turks.” Under Iraq’s Ba’athist regime, Saddam Hussein’s “Arabization” policy led to mass persecution, with many Kurds displaced to Iran or killed.
In response to these humanitarian crises, New Zealand has provided refuge to Kurds from Syria, Afghanistan, and other regions. In this multicultural society, they have found a safe and welcoming home where they can celebrate their festivals freely, preserve their cultural traditions, and thrive as a community.
A Joyous Conclusion
The celebration concluded with guests moving to the dining hall, where they enjoyed traditional Iranian cuisine while engaging in lively conversations and laughter. It was a truly memorable occasion, marking yet another beautiful and meaningful Nowruz celebration.
“Nowruz” in Persian means “New Day” (Now = New, Ruz = Day), symbolizing the arrival of spring and the triumph of light over darkness. With origins dating back over 3,000 years to the Zoroastrian era of the ancient Persian Empire, Nowruz is traditionally celebrated on the spring equinox (March 21). Today, it is a major festival observed in Iran, the Middle East, Central Asia, the Caucasus, and even Xinjiang, China.
Much like the Chinese New Year, Nowruz lasts between 3 to 15 days and includes many rich traditions. On the eve of the festival, families gather around a feast symbolizing prosperity in the coming year. Homes are thoroughly cleaned, and new clothes are worn to signify a fresh start and purification. The Haft-Seen table is set with seven symbolic items, including sprouted grains representing rebirth and sweet pudding signifying abundance. The fire-jumping ritual is performed to ward off bad luck and welcome renewal. Traditional delicacies, such as Sumalak sweet wheat pudding, are enjoyed as a symbol of spring’s arrival. Festivities also include cultural performances, poetry recitations, music, and street celebrations, showcasing the diversity of traditions associated with Nowruz.
Beyond its cultural significance, Nowruz embodies a universal aspiration for peace, prosperity, and renewal. As a celebration of unity and diversity, it strengthens bonds among families, communities, and even nations. Recognizing its global importance, the United Nations General Assembly has designated March 21 as “International Nowruz Day.”
The Kurdish Community in New Zealand
The celebration also provided an opportunity to introduce the Kurdish people and their community in New Zealand. The Kurds are an Iranian-speaking ethnic group native to West Asia, primarily residing in Turkey, Syria, Iraq, and Iran. With an estimated population of 30 million, they are the fourth-largest ethnic group in the Middle East and the world’s largest stateless nation.
The Kurds have a rich history, traditionally living in the mountainous region of Kurdistan as nomads and mercenaries before gradually expanding to surrounding areas. However, they have long faced oppression in the countries they inhabit. In Syria, Kurdish cultural expressions, including traditional dress, festivals, and publications, were once entirely banned. Turkey has historically suppressed Kurdish uprisings, and prior to 1991, the word “Kurd” itself was prohibited, forcing Kurds to identify as “Mountain Turks.” Under Iraq’s Ba’athist regime, Saddam Hussein’s “Arabization” policy led to mass persecution, with many Kurds displaced to Iran or killed.
In response to these humanitarian crises, New Zealand has provided refuge to Kurds from Syria, Afghanistan, and other regions. In this multicultural society, they have found a safe and welcoming home where they can celebrate their festivals freely, preserve their cultural traditions, and thrive as a community.
A Joyous Conclusion
The celebration concluded with guests moving to the dining hall, where they enjoyed traditional Iranian cuisine while engaging in lively conversations and laughter. It was a truly memorable occasion, marking yet another beautiful and meaningful Nowruz celebration.
AAA End of Year 2020 Celebration
Minister for Ethnic Communities
Hon Melissa Lee (Nov 2023 - Jan 2025)
Minister for Ethnic Communities
Hon Priyanca Radhakrishnan (Nov 2020 - Nov 2023)
New Minister for Ethnic Communities
Hon Mark Mitchell
Seventh Multi-Ethnic Dance Festival September 2023
Auckland Asian Association AGM 2021
Auckland Asian Association Dine and Dance Event 2019
The Auckland Asian Association (AAA) organised Dine and Dance was held at 4th May 2019, and it was very successful. The venue at the Akarana Golf Club the ambience was extremely appropriate for this type of event where over 100 people turned up.
The event saw a large crowd of mostly Asian people from different cultural backgrounds get together for commardship and fun.
The band played until approximately 10:30/11:00 PM. The function raised over $3,000. This function has provided a healthy impetus for future events.
The success of this function has provided a healthy impetus under which to provide future cultural events.
The event saw a large crowd of mostly Asian people from different cultural backgrounds get together for commardship and fun.
The band played until approximately 10:30/11:00 PM. The function raised over $3,000. This function has provided a healthy impetus for future events.
The success of this function has provided a healthy impetus under which to provide future cultural events.
Auckland Asian Association
Dine and Dance Event 2014
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AAA Inauguration in April 2014
Monthly Badminton Game (Suspended)
Asian Badminton Championship Game 2020 ( Pending )
Asian Telematch Game 2020 (Postponed)
Asian Badminton Championship Game 2020 ( Pending )
Asian Telematch Game 2020 (Postponed)