Get ready, New Zealand—Diwali is coming up soon. The Festival of Lights is set to brighten up this corner of the world again, bringing a mix of colors, flavors, and festivities.
If you’re new to Diwali or have been celebrating for years, there’s something special about experiencing it in Aotearoa. This five-day festival celebrates the triumph of light over darkness in Indian culture and has become a cherished part of New Zealand’s multicultural calendar. From Auckland to Wellington, cities across the country are preparing for Diwali celebrations. It’s a time when communities come together, share delicious food, and light up the night with dazzling displays. And for those with family in India, it’s also a time to connect across the miles. Many will be looking to transfer money to India reliably to help with celebrations back home or to send a special Diwali gift. Mark your calendars for October 31, when Diwali will be in full swing. The festivities will run from October 29 to November 3, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the fun.
5 major cities in New Zealand celebrating Diwali
Wondering what to do on Diwali day in New Zealand? Let’s explore the unique Diwali festivities in five of New Zealand’s major cities: Auckland, Wellington, Tauranga, Christchurch, and Hamilton. Each city puts its spin on the Festival of Lights, ensuring that no matter where you are in Aotearoa, you’ll find exciting ways to join in the celebration.
1. Auckland
- The BNZ Auckland Diwali Festival is a must-visit for anyone seeking to experience the vibrant spirit of Diwali in New Zealand. This year, the festival returns to Aotea Square and Queen Street on Saturday, October 19, and Sunday, October 20. The iconic Vector Lights will illuminate the Auckland Harbour Bridge in celebration, and a spectacular fireworks display from the Aotea Centre rooftop will close things out.
- The inaugural NZ Diwali festival, organized by the Akal Foundation, will light up Barry Curtis Park in Flat Bush on October 26. This celebration of light, love, and unity promises to be a vibrant showcase of Indian culture and traditions, open to all. Esteemed celebrity personalities from India will also add glamour and authenticity to the festivities.
- Manukau Diwali by Radio Tarana will return at the Due Drop Events Centre on Monday, October 28. This event will feature Bollywood dance competitions, live performances, food stalls, and a spectacular fireworks display. Experience Bhangra, Giddah, Garba, and Bharatanatyam all in one place.
2. Wellington
- The Diwali Festival of Lights will illuminate Wellington on Sunday, October 27, from 2 pm to 8:30 pm. The capital will host nonstop entertainment, food stalls, henna art, lantern making, and more in the TSB Arena and Shed 6. The Wellington Diwali fireworks will light up the sky after the festivities at 8:45 pm.
3. Tauranga
- The Tauranga Diwali Festival returns in 2024 on Saturday, November 23, bringing a packed schedule of cultural dances, Indian street foods, henna art, and more. This festival will host international, national, and local performers for just one gold coin donation at the entrance.
4. Christchurch
- The Indian Social & Cultural Club (ISCC) Diwali event returns to North Hagley Park in Christchurch, NZ, on Saturday, October 26, from 2 pm to 9 pm. This jam-packed event will feature traditional food and performances and end with an impressive fireworks display.
- Diwali Festival at Riverside Market is another great event in Christchurch in 2024. Brought to you in association with Bhartiya Samaj Canterbury and Canterbury Indian Women Group, this event will be held on Saturday, November 2, from 5 pm to 9 pm and feature a host of live performances and engaging activities for all ages—including a candle lighting by the river at dusk.
5. Hamilton
- Diwali is returning to Hamilton Lake at the Innes Common, courtesy of the Waikato Indian Cultural Society. On Saturday, November 2, head down for the Waikato Diwali Mela from 5 pm to 9 pm for a range of family activities.
Celebrate Diwali with family and friends outside New Zealand
Celebrating Diwali when you’re far from loved ones doesn’t mean missing out on the fun. There are plenty of ways to connect and share the spirit of the festival:
- Cook together virtually: Set up a video chat and prepare traditional Diwali sweets as a group.
- Light diyas in unison: Coordinate with family abroad to light your lamps at the same time.
- Host friendly competitions: Organize virtual contests for the best rangoli designs or cleanest homes.
These Diwali activities for adults and kids help bridge the distance and keep traditions alive. But sometimes, you might want to do more than just connect virtually. Many people also like to send gifts or financial support to their families during Diwali. Let’s explore how you can easily transfer money or send gifts to your loved ones in India, helping them celebrate Diwali in style.
Transfer money from New Zealand to loved ones this Diwali
Diwali is a time of generosity and connection. While traditional presents like Ganesh and Lakshmi coins, jewelry, or sweets are popular, sending these items overseas can be challenging. Packages may get lost, delayed, or prove too expensive to ship.
A reliable money transfer to India is a practical and meaningful alternative. Sending money to India is a great way to contribute to your loved ones’ Diwali celebrations—and it’s especially fitting during this festival that honors Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity.
Western Union makes international money transfers simple and convenient for Diwali gifting:
- Multiple transfer options: You can send money online, via our user-friendly app, or in person at one of our agent locations.
- Flexible receiving methods: Your recipients can collect cash at one of our agent locations in India or choose to have money deposited directly into their bank accounts.
- Speed and reliability: With our extensive global network, your Diwali gift can reach your loved ones smoothly.
- Trusted service: We’ve been helping people send money across borders for more than 170 years, including to India.
- Competitive rates: Use our app for tracking exchange rates to ensure your Diwali gift goes as far as possible.
This Diwali, let Western Union help you illuminate the lives of your loved ones. It’s about more than just sending money—it’s about sharing the joy and prosperity of the festival, even when you’re miles apart.
FAQs about Diwali in New Zealand
How is Diwali celebrated in New Zealand?
New Zealand celebrates Diwali with a blend of traditional Indian customs and local flavor. This vibrant festival of lights is marked by community events featuring dazzling fireworks, cultural performances like Bhangra and Bharat Natyam, and delicious Indian cuisine. Families light diyas (oil lamps), decorate their homes with rangoli (colorful patterns), and exchange gifts and sweets. Diwali is also a time for prayer and reflection, with many attending temple services or performing puja (worship) at home.
Are there public events for Diwali in New Zealand?
Yes, there are several public Diwali events throughout New Zealand, particularly in major cities like Auckland. These events often include large-scale festivals with food stalls, cultural performances, and fireworks displays. Some notable events include the BNZ Auckland Diwali Festival, the NZ Diwali Festival in Manukau, and various community-organized celebrations in cities like Christchurch and Wellington.
What traditions are associated with Diwali in New Zealand?
While acknowledging core Diwali traditions like lighting diyas, creating rangoli, and enjoying festive meals, New Zealand adds its own unique touch. This sometimes includes incorporating local elements like Haka performances or locally inspired food stalls. The multicultural environment fosters a sense of inclusivity, enabling people from diverse backgrounds to experience and appreciate Diwali celebrations.
Is Diwali recognized as a public holiday in New Zealand?
No, Diwali is not a public holiday in New Zealand. Many communities recognize and celebrate the festival’s significance, making it an integral part of the country’s multicultural focus.
