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
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