Discover what Diwali is, why it is celebrated and how Aucklanders can experience the colour, culture and traditions of the Festival of Lights across Tāmaki Makaurau this October and November.
What is Diwali?
Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is the Festival of Lights and is celebrated by millions of people around the world.
At its heart is the message of light over darkness, good over evil and knowledge over ignorance. Celebrations vary between communities and traditions, but often bring families and communities together through food, music, prayer, lights and cultural traditions.
In Tāmaki Makaurau, Auckland's Indian communities celebrate Diwali in many different ways, and Aucklanders can learn more about these traditions through events and activities taking place across the region.
How can you celebrate Diwali in Auckland?
One of the best ways to experience Diwali in Auckland is at the BNZ Auckland Diwali Festival, the city's annual celebration of Indian culture, music, dance, food and traditions.
The free, family-friendly festival has been part of Auckland's cultural calendar since 2002. It brings together Aucklanders to enjoy traditional and contemporary Indian performances, vegetarian food, arts and crafts, exhibitions, cultural workshops and activities for the whole whānau.
The festival also offers opportunities to experience Diwali traditions first-hand, from creating rangoli designs to enjoying yoga, meditation, music and dance.
The main festival takes place in central Auckland with celebrations extending beyond the main weekend through a wider programme of Diwali experiences across the city.
There will also be opportunities to experience Indian film, classical music, art, workshops, and traditional and contemporary performances throughout the Diwali season.
See Auckland light up for Diwali
Te Ara I Whiti lights up at night for Diwali.
Diwali is known as the Festival of Lights, and some of Auckland's best-known landmarks and public spaces will join the celebrations.
The Sky Tower, Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki and Auckland War Memorial Museum will be illuminated in fuchsia, while Queen Street and Te Ara I Whiti, the Lightpath, will feature festive lighting displays. Auckland Harbour Bridge will also be lit in fuchsia and orange through Vector Lights.
Auckland Town Hall will showcase colourful Diwali artworks, with projection experiences combining imagery, sound and storytelling at both Auckland Town Hall and Te Waihorotiu Station.
Where to experience Diwali in Auckland
The main BNZ Auckland Diwali Festival takes place in central Auckland and is free to attend.
For the full festival programme, event times, transport information and other details to help plan your visit, visit the BNZ Auckland Diwali Festival website.
There are also Diwali experiences taking place across central Auckland and the wider region throughout October and November, giving Aucklanders more ways to discover Indian culture, traditions and the spirit of the Festival of Lights.