Auckland Council is spreading the light this Diwali with a plethora of small and big celebrations across the city powered by its local boards.
From Papatoetoe to Mt Roskill to Harbour Bridge, the city will come alive with such activities as diya making workshops, Diwali melas, craft corners and storytelling sessions.
Apart from its showstopper BNZ Diwali Festival at Aotea Square on November 4-5, Auckland Council is partnering with community organisations to hold small and big gatherings bringing people together across the city.
The neighbourhood galas are all about making sure local communities understand celebrations, says Ella Kumar, Chair of Puketapapa Local Board that is supporting a diya-making workshop in Mt Roskill.
“It helps inclusiveness, and people get to know their neighbours. In Mt Roskill, we have a high percentage of the South Asian population. We have been supporting this Diwali celebration for five to seven years.
“In the past, I have also been part of the big Diwali gala in Auckland Central [at Aotea Square]. To see something come local, to communities who can’t be in the city…to be able to participate in the festival is great.”
The series of events leading up to the Festival of Lights is a way to recognise how the Kiwi-Indian community contributes to a diverse Auckland, says a Council official.
Here’s a full list of activities planned for the coming days, take your pick!
