On 13 October, the Banquet Hall of Parliament came alive with light, colour, and celebration for Diwali 2025, the Festival of Lights. The event marked a moment of reflection and joy, symbolising hope, renewal, and the triumph of light over darkness. It also honoured the rich cultural heritage and invaluable contributions of New Zealand’s Indian, Southeast Asian and wider Ethnic Communities.
The celebration brought together a distinguished gathering, including Prime Minister Rt Hon Christopher Luxon, Hon Melissa Lee, Her Excellency Ms Neeta Bhushan, High Commissioner of India to New Zealand, members of the diplomatic corps, MPs, and leaders from across communities and government. The evening was a vibrant expression of Diwali’s enduring message of unity, peace, and shared humanity.
A warm welcome and musical start
Guests were greeted by a lively and welcoming atmosphere, accompanied by the soulful rhythms of the Takadimi Ensemble, whose live performance set the tone for the evening. As people mingled and connected, the room filled with conversation, colour, and anticipation for what was to come.
Blessings, lights, and messages of hope
The formal proceedings began with a traditional blessing by Priest Mayur Pandya, invoking good fortune and harmony for the year ahead.
This was followed by the ceremonial garlanding, tika, and lighting of the diya (lamp), a symbolic gesture of light overcoming darkness, led by the Prime Minister , Hon Melissa Lee, Her Excellency Ms Neeta Bhushan, Mr Veer Khar, President of the New Zealand Indian Central Association (NZICA), and Mervin Singham, our Chief Executive.
Speeches highlighting unity and shared values
The Prime Minister, Rt Hon Christopher Luxon, delivered the evening’s keynote address, acknowledging the invaluable contributions of Ethnic Communities to New Zealand’s cultural and social fabric. He reflected on the shared values and enduring relationship between New Zealand and India, and the importance of building even stronger connections between the two nations.
“We want to see a more confident, more ambitious, more aspirational and more positive New Zealand, and I think we can do that by working together on the challenges we have, but also the huge opportunities we have as well.
Celebrate with family, food and festivities of this Diwali, make us embrace that central message of hope, of resilience and of harmony. Happy Diwali everyone,” Mr Luxon says.
On behalf of the Minister for Ethnic Communities, Hon Mark Mitchell, Hon Melissa Lee shared his remarks, celebrating the spirit of Diwali as a reflection of New Zealand’s collective diversity and resilience.
Her Excellency Ms Neeta Bhushan, High Commissioner of India, spoke about the deep cultural and historical ties between India and New Zealand, describing Diwali as a symbol of friendship, collaboration, and mutual respect.
Mr Veer Khar, President of the New Zealand Indian Central Association, also addressed guests, acknowledging the enduring partnership between the Indian community and the Ministry, and celebrating the shared spirit of togetherness that Diwali represents.
Captivating performances and cultural pride
The evening featured several performances that captured the beauty and rhythm of Indian arts.
Simran Chadha (Asoulthatdances) delivered a graceful dance performance that embodied the elegance of contemporary Indian expression. This was followed by the Shivam Dance Academy (SDANZ), whose energetic choreography and colourful costumes filled the Banquet Hall with festive energy and joy.
A celebration of connection and light
As the formalities concluded, guests gathered for refreshments, photos, and conversation. The evening closed in a spirit of friendship and gratitude with a true reflection of Diwali’s message of light, hope, and unity.
We extend our warmest thanks to all who attended and contributed to making this year’s celebration such a success.
Participants concluded their evening on a sweet note, thanks to the generous contribution of sweets from the New Zealand Indian Central Association.
