Fiordland is hosting two vibrant South Asian festivals on Sunday 10th November at the Te Anau Event Centre Hall.
The event, sponsored by Ngā Kete Matauranga Pounamu Charitable Trust, will celebrate Diwali – the festival of lights, and Kukur Tihar – the Nepali festival of dogs.
Ngā Kete staff member Sagar Khemani said, “Come and meet your community, learn about these different celebrations, be entertained and explore.”
“Living on the edge of the National Park in the South Western corner of New Zealand, we are privileged to have a diversity of wonderful cultures incorporated into our community. This is an opportunity to explore the different expressions of celebrations from different parts of the world and immerse yourself and your whanau in it.”
The event will include henna patterns, rangoli making (colourful patterns), indoor games, dancing and Indian snacks.
This will be the third Diwali festival celebration in Te Anau. New this year is the addition of Kukur Tihar, which celebrates loyalty and companionship.
Bring along your beloved pet dogs to the Te Anau Event Centre carpark at the end of the Diwali celebration (3pm) to spoil and celebrate them. There will be flower garlands (mala) to place around dogs necks, snack treats for the dogs and a photo booth. Please only bring well socialised dogs on leads, Mr Khemani said.
When: Sunday 10 November 2024 at the Te Anau Event Centre Hall. Diwali: 12pm start, free entry, Kukur Tihar: 3-3:30pm, free entry. This event is sponsored by Ngā Kete Mātauranga Pounamu Charitable Trust and supported by: Northern Southland Vets; Te Anau Events Trust; Te Hau Toka; Raja's Indian Restaurant & Bar; Southern Stars and Nurture and Bloom; the Southland and Fiordland Indian, Nepali and Sri Lankan communities and their families and friends.
