North Shore's first Diwali festival illuminates hearts, skies

The North Shore Diwali Festival wasn't just a celebration of tradition, it was a jubilant homage to community, diversity and unity.

On October 28, 2023, Northcote's Hato Petera Sports Field was transformed into a dazzling spectacle of lights and colours as the event unfolded.

Organised by Punish Budhiraja and Anna Trivedi from Barfoot & Thompson Albany, the inaugural celebration marked a significant moment in the cultural fabric of the North Shore community.

(From left) Anna Trivedi, Punish Budhiraja and Dan Bidois

The festivities kicked off with a deep sense of unity that would make any cultural melting pot proud. Picture this: a moving Maori prayer, a nod to the roots of the land, followed by a traditional Hindu pooja where everyone was invited to partake in the sacred ritual of lighting diyas.

With free entry and ample parking, the festival attracted at least 4,000 visitors from across Auckland, encompassing local residents and those from neighbouring communities. The air was filled with the tantalising aroma of Indian delicacies from 18 food stalls, offering an array of culinary delights.

Additionally, attendees explored the offerings of 32 market stalls, where you could shop for everything from traditional trinkets to contemporary Indian goodies.

The heart of the festival was the dazzling array of cultural performances that celebrated the vibrancy of Indian heritage. Spectators were mesmerised by a kids' fancy show, an enchanting Indian ethnic wear fashion show, and a spectacular gala performance by the renowned Nachda Punjab dance group.

As the day turned into night, excitement peaked with a breathtaking fireworks display that lit up the sky for more than six minutes.

“I moved to New Zealand in 2011 as a student, and I have always lived on the North Shore and loved it. Recently, I was granted my NZ citizenship in August this year; there would not have been a better way to give back to the community by organising the first Diwali festival in North Shore. A big thanks to everyone for making this event a grand success" said Punish.

Adding to this, Anna said, “We are overwhelmed by the support and enthusiasm from the community. We hope to make the North Shore Diwali Festival an annual tradition, promising more enriching cultural experiences and celebrations for the community in the years to come.

“As the curtains draw on the first North Shore Diwali Festival, it leaves behind a trail of vibrant cultural fusion and promises an even more enthralling celebration in the future.”

Special guests, including dignitaries from the local Kaipatiki Board and MP Dan Bidois, showered the organisers with praise for their extraordinary efforts in fostering community unity.

Feedback from attendees echoed the event's success, with one festival-goer, Tarwinder Singh Mann, praising the organisation, location and the perfect blend of food and entertainment.

“It was lovely seeing families sitting on grass fields with their young kids and enjoying themselves while watching stage performances."

One of the vendors, Namrata Sharma of Jewels by NS, expressed gratitude for being part of the event and commended the well-organised stage performances and fireworks.