Chinese Consul General in Auckland Chen Shijie Attends the 2026 Hamilton Lantern Festival

On 28 February, Consul General Chen Shijie attended and delivered remarks at the 2026 Hamilton Lantern Festival. The event was also joined by Member of Parliament Ryan Hamilton, Hamilton Mayor Tim Macindoe, former Mayor Paula Southgate, and other dignitaries, celebrating the festival with more than 5,000 local people.

In his speech, Chen extended New Year greetings to distinguished guests and members of the Chinese community. He noted that the Lantern Festival has become an influential cultural brand in the Waikato Region, serving as a vivid example of multicultural integration in New Zealand and a warm bridge connecting the two peoples. The Consulate-General stands ready to work hand in hand with all sectors in the consular district to further deepen mutually beneficial and practical cooperation, enhance exchanges and mutual learning between civilizations, and jointly write a new chapter in the development of relations between China and New Zealand.

The Lantern Festival was jointly organized by the Waikato Chinese Culture and Arts Center and the China Cultural Center in Auckland, among others. The event was marked by a festive and lively atmosphere. An auspicious red horse installation became a popular photo spot. Performances such as lion dances, Kunqu opera, magic shows, face-changing, and song and dance captivated the audience, while a variety of Chinese delicacies offering the taste of China were warmly received.