Record-breaking Lunar New Year celebrations bring Asia to Wellington’s waterfront
Wellington has welcomed the Year of the Fire Horse in spectacular style, with record crowds turning out over the weekend for the most diverse and inclusive programme in the 26-year history of the Wellington Lunar New Year Festival, organised by the Asian Events Trust.
Across the capital communities came together in a vibrant celebration of culture, colour and connection, transforming the city into a living showcase of Asia in Wellington’s backyard.
Audiences experienced a dynamic programme of performances highlighting culture and Lunar New Year traditions from China, the Philippines, Vietnam, Thailand, Japan and Korea. They were joined by local performers — Asian and non-Asian alike — who brought their own horse-inspired performances to the stage.
United by a shared purpose to celebrate Lunar New Year, the programme became a truly inclusive showcase spanning ages, backgrounds and ethnicities, reflecting the richness and diversity of Wellington itself.
Saturday night’s Galloping into the New Year celebrations drew unprecedented numbers to the waterfront. Thunderous taiko drummers and mesmerising dragon dancers energised the crowds, complemented by a special late-night opening at Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa.
An estimated 10,000 people packed the waterfront — with many more watching from vantage points across Wellington’s CBD — for a breath-taking 10-minute fireworks display that lit up the harbour and signalled a powerful start to the Year of the Horse.
Stunning summer weather continued into Sunday, setting the stage for a record-breaking Festival Day. Crowds were transfixed by five hours of traditional and contemporary performances, while the bustling Asian Market offered colourful arts and crafts and delicious cuisine. Families delighted in “Horsing Around” activities, ensuring fun and engagement for all ages.
The result was a cultural feast that transported Asia to Wellington’s waterfront — a joyful, high-energy celebration that captured the movement, optimism and bold spirit of the Year of the Horse.
Linda Lim, Chair of the Asian Events Trust and Programme Director of the festival, said she was humbled by the community response.
“It was fantastic to see Wellingtonians turn out in such extraordinary numbers and engage so deeply with every aspect of the festival. To witness so many communities sharing their culture and traditions so generously — and to see the wider public embrace that — is truly special.
“This year has shown the strength of our diversity and the power of coming together to celebrate it, “ says Linda.
Wellington’s Lunar New Year Festival has once again demonstrated that when communities unite, the result is vibrant, welcoming and memorable — a celebration that truly brings Asia to the capital’s waterfront.
The festival continues until 2 March. For the full programme and event details, visit: https://lunarnewyearfestival.co.nz/supported-events
For more information, or interview, contact Linda Lim – phone 027 432 4269 or email linda@asianeventstrust.co.nz
