Auckland’s Lantern Festival returns in February after four-year hiatus
Wednesday, 24 January 2024
After four years of cancellations, one of the biggest cultural events in Auckland has returned.
Auckland’s Lantern Festival is set to glow again next month as it celebrates the Year of the Dragon at a new venue.
The festival will bring hundreds of lanterns to the Manukau Sports Bowl, along with traditional and contemporary performances, cultural displays, and a line-up of food stalls.
The Year of the Dragon is a significant year in the Chinese zodiac calendar, represented by the only mythological creature in the zodiac which is associated with power, luck and prosperity.
To celebrate the Year of the Dragon, a newly commissioned handmade dragon lantern on a spectacular scale of 30m – roughly the size of two buses – will be on display beside the main stage.
Chris Simpson, head of major events at Tātaki Auckland Unlimited, says the return of the festival has been much anticipated by Aucklanders.
“This BNZ Auckland Lantern Festival is such an important part of Auckland’s cultural life, and it’s been missed by Aucklanders and visitors alike,” Simpson said.
“Last year we were tantalisingly close to holding the festival at this new venue, and we know Aucklanders are more than ready to experience the festival’s range of food stalls, cultural performances and displays this year.”
BNZ senior brand partnerships manager Kim Ravenhall said the BNZ team were proud to support an event that brings people together from all walks of life to celebrate the rich diversity of cultures in Aotearoa.
“This festival is always hotly anticipated, and our involvement underscores BNZ’s commitment to growing the social, cultural, and financial wellbeing of our communities,” Ravenhall said.
“This year, we’re proud to introduce the BNZ Basketball Court, where festival goers can enjoy guest appearances from the BNZ Breakers and BNZ Northern Kāhu players, participate in free skills sessions, and get some time on the court.
“Meanwhile, the BNZ Grandstand offers a fantastic spot for families and friends to relax, enjoy the festival’s array of food and performances, and really soak in the atmosphere.”
The festival was cancelled last year following the Anniversary Weekend Floods. The Covid-19 pandemic shut down the event for three consecutive years before that.