Mike Ny – Glou Glou Espresso and Wine Bar
Meet Mike Ny, co-owner of Glou Glou. Of Cambodian descent, Mike brings both heritage and hospitality to the heart of the festival. Glou Glou, burst onto Wellington’s hospo scene in January 2024. It has quickly become known for its creative approach to food and community, and will open as a wine bar this summer.
For the Lunar New Year Festival, Glou Glou has created a special dish exclusively for February, offering festival-goers a taste that reflects both tradition and innovation. Mike and his team will also host a hands-on dumpling-making workshop on the evening of 21 February, timed to coincide with the Fireworks Display — a chance for the community to gather, learn, and celebrate together.
Mike’s journey reflects the spirit of the Lunar New Year Festival — a celebration of heritage, community, and shared experiences. His Cambodian roots, paired with a passion for hospitality, embody the festival’s aim to bring people together through culture, creativity, and the joy of discovery.
How long have you been involved in the Wellington Lunar New Year Festival and what ethnic community/culture do you associate yourself with.
I’ve been involved with the festival directly since 2025 however my family has been participants in the festivals for as long as I can remember and my wife has been involved since 2009!
For the 2026 Festival, what is your role, and what traditions or elements from your culture are you most excited to share with Wellingtonians this year?
I’m the co-owner of Glou Glou and we’re a hospitality venue participating in the Lunar New Year Festival. With food being such a big part of Lunar new year, I’m excited to be sharing some exclusive food items with Wellington and blending various cultures together.
Lunar New Year is celebrated across many cultures. How does your own cultural heritage shape the way you participate in the festival programme?
Being Cambodian, we’re used to celebrating across cultures. Lunar New Year becomes a moment to come together, share food, and show hospitality - values that are central to both our culture and at Glou Glou.
What has been a standout or memorable moment for you from past festivals, and why does it continue to inspire your involvement?
Being directly involved last year in 2025. Seeing how much spirit and support there is within the festival for the city that emobodies the essence of its entirety. Seeing all of my friends and family involved, the lion dancers racing through the city, the activations and shows in the arena topped off by fireworks - the entire festival is what keeps me inspired to be involved.
Looking ahead to the 2026 celebrations, what is the one highlight you’d encourage people not to miss, and what do you hope it helps them understand about your culture and the wider Lunar New Year community in Wellington?
Getting down to the Asian Market at TSB Arena and Shed 6. It really has something for everyone, literally, and is such a melting pot of Asian cultures. There’s so much to take in and learn about all cultures and also a special environment entirely.
See other Faces of the Festival articles: