Xīn Nián Kuài Lè! 新年快乐!
Sun Nin Fai Lok! 新年快樂!
We would like to wish all Chinese communities in Aotearoa a Happy Chinese New Year.
The festival that is frequently referred to as Chinese New Year is not only celebrated in China. The term Lunar New Year is increasingly used to refer to festivals in other countries that take place at the same time and with many of the same traditions as in China.
We hope all communities celebrating the Lunar New Year have a wonderful time as they unite with family and friends and enjoy the festivities.
Our Chinese community in New Zealand represents almost 5 percent of the population. It is one of the largest ethnic communities in Aotearoa, with more than 170,000 people who identify as Chinese living in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland alone.
Many events to celebrate the Chinese New Year and Lunar New Year are being held throughout the country to recognise this important cultural occasion. Check out this guide for events in your area: Lunar New Year celebrations across the country | Stuff.co.nz
Chinese New Year marks the start of the Year of the Rabbit. People born in this year are believed to be warm, kind, friendly and welcoming – qualities we embrace at the Ministry.
Our Chief Executive Mervin Singham and Deputy Chief Executives Pratima Namasivayam and Fleur Murray wanted to pass on a special message to Chinese communities.
If you wish to share it, you can also find the video on our Facebook and LinkedIn pages.
See the Facebook post: Chinese New Year - Facebook
See the LinkedIn post: Chinese New Year - LinkedIn
We hope everyone celebrating Chinese New Year and Lunar New Year has a wonderful time catching up with family and friends, enjoying good food together and creating new memories.