BNZ Auckland Diwali Festival

Running since 2002, the BNZ Auckland Diwali Festival is New Zealand's largest Indian cultural festival, filling Aotea Square with colour, sound, and the smell of freshly fried pakora. The programme spans live street performances, art installations, projection shows that transform Auckland Town Hall, creative workshops, and a fireworks display to close each evening.

Food is a serious draw — Diwali holds the title of New Zealand's largest vegetarian festival, with vendors serving pav bhaji, kulfi, and a wide range of traditional Indian dishes. Families can also browse the festival marketplace for handmade crafts and clothing, catch a yoga and wellness session, or find a themed photo spot.

Cultural celebrations, a Living Arts Lounge, and hands-on creative workshops round out a programme that genuinely reflects Auckland's Indian communities, guided by a dedicated Diwali Advisory Group.