Auckland, New Zealand | 31 October 2026
The BNZ Auckland Diwali Festival 2026 was celebrated with great enthusiasm on 31 October and 1 November at Aotea Square and Queen Street, bringing together thousands of people from diverse cultural backgrounds. The magnificent celebration showcased the richness of Indian heritage through traditional music, colourful dance performances, cultural displays, delicious cuisine and festive activities, beautifully reflecting New Zealand’s multicultural identity and spirit of togetherness.
The celebrations were graced by the Prime Minister of New Zealand, Rt Hon Christopher Luxon, as Chief Guest, alongside Her Excellency Ms Muanpuii Saiawi, High Commissioner of India to New Zealand, Mr Dan Huggins, Chief Executive Officer of Bank of New Zealand (BNZ), and Auckland Deputy Mayor, Councillor Desley Simpson. The gathering brought together distinguished dignitaries, diplomatic representatives, community leaders and invited guests, including Dr Jagjit Singh, Honorary Consul of Georgia to New Zealand, accompanied by his wife, Ms Reeta Arora. The Prime Minister extended his Diwali greetings, highlighting the festival’s message of hope, generosity and togetherness.
The ceremonial lighting of the diya symbolised the triumph of light over darkness and the shared values of peace, harmony and goodwill.
The festival once again demonstrated the power of cultural celebrations in bringing communities closer, fostering friendship, mutual respect and understanding across different backgrounds.
TG Bureau
