Delivered by the local Tauranga branch of the New Zealand China Friendship Society, the festival will feature around 20 food vendors offering an array of traditional and contemporary Asian dishes. The day will also feature cultural performances, including a special appearance by traditional Chinese instrumental musicians, children’s activities and games, and the much-loved dragon dance. Tauranga China Friendship Society President Tina Zhang extends an open invitation to the whole community to attend.
“We’re excited to bring the community together again for these celebrations. It’s a great opportunity for people of all ages to experience Asian culture through food, traditional music, and family-friendly activities, and to celebrate diversity together.”
The Historic Village has long been a destination for public celebration, hosting a full calendar of outdoor events each year on the Village Green, from the Tauranga Diwali Festival and Tauranga Moana Waitangi Day Festival to the Tauranga Multicultural Festival, National Jazz Festival and Elektrophoria. These events energise The Village, drawing thousands of people and filling the streets with colour and activity.
“The Historic Village is a hub for the community, making it a perfect place to host celebrations like the Asian Food Festival,” says Blair Graham, Manager of The Historic Village.
“When events like this are on, The Village really comes alive. It’s always great to see people coming together, spending time with one another and enjoying everything on offer.”
While the festival itself celebrates Chinese New Year, it also acknowledges the wider Lunar New Year, which is celebrated by many Asian cultures including Chinese, Korean and Vietnamese communities. One of the world’s most ancient celebrations, Lunar New Year is a special time to come together with family and friends, honour traditions, and share kai.
Haidee Kalirai, Diversity and Culture Advisor at Tauranga City Council, says events like this play an important role in fostering inclusion and connection.
“Celebrating a diverse range of cultural events is a wonderful way to bring people together in Tauranga. We support our communities to celebrate and share their cultures, stories and traditions, which strengthens connection, deepens understanding, and helps everyone feel a sense of belonging.
“These events contribute to our welcoming, vibrant community where our diversity is recognised as a strength which enriches Tauranga as a city.”
The Asian Food Festival is proudly supported by the Tauranga Western Bay Community Events Fund. Established in collaboration between the Acorn Foundation, Bay Trust, TECT, Tauranga City Council, and Western Bay of Plenty District Council, the fund champions community-led events that deliver positive social outcomes and enrich the wider community.
More information about the Asian Food Festival can be found here.
Getting there:
Free parking is available on 17th Avenue and surrounding streets, but spaces can fill quickly. Visitors are encouraged to consider alternative travel options such as walking, cycling via the Kōpūrererua Valley cycle way, or catching the bus. The #55 and #59 Baybus routes stop right outside The Historic Village.
Also happening this weekend:
Chinese New Year celebrations at The Little Big Markets
Head along to a special Chinese New Year edition of The Little Big Markets in Tauranga city centre. Enjoy delicious cuisine, take part in a free fan-painting activity, and be entertained by traditional performances, including the iconic dragon dance.
Sunday, 15 February, 10am–2pm, Tauranga Waterfront
There’s plenty happening across the city, visit whatsontauranga.co.nz to discover events happening this weekend and beyond.