The BNZ Auckland Diwali Festival 2026 drew thousands of people from many cultural backgrounds to Aotea Square and Queen Street on 31 October and 1 November. The two-day celebration showcased Indian heritage through traditional music, colourful dance performances, cultural displays, food and festive activities, reflecting New Zealand’s multicultural spirit.
Festival at a glance
- Dates: Saturday 31 October and Sunday 1 November 2026.
- Venue: Aotea Square, Queen Street and surrounding venues in central Auckland.
- Entry: free, with vegetarian food available to buy.
- Organisers: the festival is an Auckland Council event delivered by Tataki Auckland Unlimited, and it usually attracts more than 65,000 people each year, according to the Auckland Diwali Festival website.
Distinguished guests
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon attended as chief guest and extended his Diwali greetings, highlighting the festival’s message of hope, generosity and togetherness. He was joined by India’s High Commissioner to New Zealand, Her Excellency Ms Muanpuii Saiawi, BNZ Chief Executive Dan Huggins and Auckland Deputy Mayor Desley Simpson.
The gathering also included diplomatic representatives, community leaders and invited guests, among them Dr Jagjit Singh, Honorary Consul of Georgia to New Zealand, who attended with his wife, Ms Reeta Arora.
The lighting of the diya
The ceremonial lighting of the diya, the traditional oil lamp, symbolised the triumph of light over darkness and the shared values of peace, harmony and goodwill that Diwali represents.
A celebration of community
The festival once again showed how cultural celebrations can bring communities closer together, building friendship, mutual respect and understanding across different backgrounds.
Attendees and dignitaries extended congratulations and thanks to BNZ, Auckland Council, Tataki Auckland Unlimited, the organisers, performers and volunteers who made Auckland Diwali 2026 a success. The event reflected the inclusive spirit of New Zealand, where cultural diversity continues to strengthen community bonds and enrich the nation’s shared identity.
Read more: Northshore Diwali 2026 celebrates cultural diversity, community unity and the festival of lights | More New Zealand news
