Auckland’s Lunar New Year festival, running from 26 January to 22 February, promises to dazzle with a fusion of traditional and contemporary celebrations. Funded by Auckland Council through the city centre targeted rate, this 28-day festival reflects the diverse cultural flavours of Aucklanders with roots in China, Taiwan, Malaysia, Vietnam, South Korea, Singapore, Japan, Indonesia, and the Philippines.
Here’s what you can expect as the city comes alive with colour, sound, and taste, embracing a unique pan-Asian Auckland flavour.
Weekend Highlights: Sculptures, Cats, and Culinary Delights
Chubby Women Sculptures
Aotea Square will host Xu Hongfei’s acclaimed ‘Chubby Women’ sculptures, which have toured iconic venues like the Louvre and Sydney. These playful, body-positive works celebrate self-expression and joy. Xu will also host an Artist Talk, offering insights into his inspirations and creative process, alongside a guided curatorial tour of his works.
The Lucky Cat Goes Kiwi
Be sure to visit the three-metre-high Lucky Cat near The Terrace Café in Aotea Square. This larger-than-life figurine, symbolising prosperity and fortune across Asia, adds a Kiwi twist by flashing adorable finger-hearts. Neon-red Lucky Cats will also illuminate Darby Street, while Asian art lightboxes at the Ellen Melville Centre and Bledisloe Lane will provide further visual treats.
Lorne Street Food Festival
On Saturday, 1 February, Te Hā o Hine (Khartoum Place) and Lorne Street will transform into an exciting Asian street festival. Highlights include:
- Street dance battles in Khartoum Place.
- A promenade of outdoor tables where food ambassadors share the history behind local dishes.
- Tai Chi lessons, dragon dances, traditional instrument buskers, local musicians, and storytellers.
- At the Auckland Art Gallery, enjoy lion dancers, DJ EDY’s chilled beats, guitarist Sam Nakamura, bubble tea, and family-friendly workshops inspired by the festive dish yee sang.
Auckland Live: Karaoke, Mahjong, and More
As part of Auckland Live’s Summer in the Square, Aotea Square will host:
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A Lunar New Year karaoke competition.
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Mahjong workshops for beginners and enthusiasts alike.
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Thrilling dance performances and a variety of engaging activities for all ages.
A Day for China and Korea Enthusiasts
On 1 February, the Ellen Melville Centre will spotlight Chinese and Korean cultures with mesmerising K-pop performances, taekwondo displays, and workshops. Continue the celebrations on 8 February with a family-friendly storytime event at the Central City Library.
Why Lunar New Year Matters
Auckland Council’s Lunar New Year festival director, Eric Ngan, highlights how Auckland’s growing pan-Asian population enriches the city’s cultural fabric. “Young Asian Kiwis are proud of their roots, enjoy life here, and continue to creatively evolve their traditions,” Ngan says.
He reflects on the essence of Lunar New Year:
“The metaphors tied to the phases of the moon—change, brightness, and wholeness—are embodied in celebrations like family reunion dinners, harmony, and aspirations for the future.”
With its mix of tradition and innovation, Auckland’s Lunar New Year Festival 2025 is a celebration not to be missed. Explore the vibrant heart of the city centre and experience the diverse cultures that make Auckland unique.
For more details, visit the Auckland Council website.
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