The Asian Food Festival at Tauranga’s Historic Village, postponed from last weekend due to the weather forecast, will now take place this Saturday, February 21, from 11am to 8pm.
Delivered by the Tauranga branch of the New Zealand China Friendship Society, the festival is set to feature around 20 food vendors offering an array of traditional and contemporary Asian dishes.
From popular street food to modern interpretations of classic recipes, there will be something to suit every palate, organisers say.
The day will also include a vibrant line-up of cultural performances and activities, including a special appearance by traditional Chinese instrumental musicians, festive ceremonies, dragon and lion dances, and games and activities for children.
Some Tauranga members of the New Zealand China Friendship Society at the Historic Village's Chinese Culture and Art Centre. Photo / Kelly O’Hara
Society president Tina Zhang said the event is an opportunity to bring the wider community together.
“We’re excited to bring the community together again for these celebrations,” Zhang said.
“It’s a great opportunity for people of all ages to experience Asian culture through food, traditional music, and family-friendly activities, and to celebrate diversity together.”
While the festival celebrates Chinese New Year, it also acknowledges the wider Lunar New Year, which is observed by many Asian cultures, including Chinese, Korean and Vietnamese communities. One of the world’s most ancient celebrations, the Lunar New Year is a special time to gather with family and friends, honour traditions and share kai.
The Historic Village on 17th Ave has long been a destination for public celebration, hosting a full calendar of outdoor events each year on the Village Green, including the Tauranga Diwali Festival, Tauranga Moana Waitangi Day Festival, Tauranga Multicultural Festival, National Jazz Festival and Elektrophoria. These events energise the village, drawing thousands of people and filling the streets with colour and activity.
New Zealand China Friendship Society Tauranga president Tina Zhang. Photo / Kelly O’Hara
“The Historic Village is a hub for the community, making it a perfect place to host celebrations like the Asian Food Festival,” village manager Blair Graham said.
“When events like this are on, the village really comes alive. It’s always great to see people coming together, spending time with one another and enjoying everything on offer.”
Haidee Kalirai, diversity and culture adviser at the Tauranga City Council, said events such as the Asian Food Festival play an important role in fostering inclusion and connection across the city.
“Celebrating a diverse range of cultural events is a wonderful way to bring people together in Tauranga. We support our communities to celebrate and share their cultures, stories and traditions, which strengthens connection, deepens understanding, and helps everyone feel a sense of belonging.
Members of the Tauranga branch of the New Zealand China Friendship Society in the Village Green at Tauranga Historic Village. Photo / Kelly O’Hara.
“These events contribute to our welcoming, vibrant community where our diversity is recognised as a strength which enriches Tauranga as a city.”
The Asian Food Festival is proudly supported by the Tauranga Western Bay Community Events Fund, a partnership between the Acorn Foundation, Bay Trust, Tect, Tauranga City Council and Western Bay of Plenty District Council.
Free parking is available on 17th Ave and surrounding streets, though visitors are encouraged to walk, cycle via the Kōpūrererua Valley cycleway, or catch Baybus routes 55 and 59, which stop outside the Historic Village.