Auckland Asia Festival Returns with Vibrant Cultural Showcase

The Auckland Asia Festival is set to make its highly anticipated return on October 11-12, 2023, at the Auckland Showgrounds in Epsom. This year, the festival promises to be the most exciting yet, celebrating nearly three decades of cultural appreciation and connection.

Originally launched almost thirty years ago, the festival has grown into New Zealand’s largest two-day Asian event, offering an extensive showcase of the diverse cultures across Asia. Attendees can look forward to a rich array of activities, including an Asia NZ Business Expo, vibrant performances, and a culinary adventure featuring dishes from various regions.

Opening the festival is a grand ceremony featuring traditional lion dancers from east Auckland, led by notable local figure Peter Low. The event will also include a Māori pōwhiri and haka, highlighting the festival’s commitment to cultural inclusivity.

The festival celebrates the diverse traditions of Asia, encompassing everything from the captivating rhythms of south and southeast Asia to the artistic expressions of west Asia. Performances will include dynamic K-pop dances, traditional dances performed by local cultural groups, and the ever-popular lion dances.

Beyond entertainment, the festival serves as a vital platform for business and community engagement. Exhibition areas will feature the Asia Wealth and Property Expo, Asia Travel Expo, and a Taste of Asia Expo, offering businesses the opportunity to connect directly with thousands of attendees. Platinum sponsors, including AMI, Honda, and Ichinen Autos, underscore the robust commercial support for this year’s event.

Organiser Mel Fernandez emphasized the significance of the exhibition, stating, “The exhibition is where culture and commerce come together. It’s a powerful chance for businesses to stand out, connect with tens of thousands of engaged visitors, and be part of Auckland’s biggest Asian showcase.”

Foodies will be particularly delighted as this year’s festival boasts the largest collection of Asian cuisine ever seen in New Zealand. Visitors can indulge in beloved dishes such as fragrant curries, juicy dumplings, Thai skewers, and Tanghulu. The Flavours of Asia Street Food Walk will showcase unique and hard-to-find dishes, many of which are rarely available even at night markets.

Travel is another significant theme of the festival. The Asia Business Expo will highlight various destinations, experiences, and opportunities throughout Asia, inspiring attendees to consider their next holiday plans.

Each element of the festival is designed to serve as an entry point for discovering the richness of Asian culture. Entry is free, making it accessible for families, students, and visitors of all ages.

This year marks a record attendance with more exhibitors, performances, and food vendors than ever before. “Each year Auckland grows not just in size, but in diversity,” Fernandez remarked. “The Auckland Asia Festival is a space where cultural harmony shines, businesses thrive, and communities come together. It’s about celebrating the diversity of Asia while creating real connections right here in Auckland.”

The Auckland Asia Festival will be open from 10:00 to 18:00 daily on October 11-12, inviting everyone to partake in this vibrant cultural celebration.