Communities from across Aotearoa New Zealand gathered at Parliament on 19 February 2026 to celebrate the Lunar New Year, welcoming the Year of the Horse with an evening of cultural performances, reflection and connection.
Hon Mark Mitchell, Minister for Ethnic Communities, hosted the annual celebration, recognising the rich diversity of Aotearoa New Zealand and the contributions of communities who observe the Lunar New Year.
The evening opened with a traditional Lion Dance by the Chinese Sports and Cultural Centre Lion Dance Troupe, accompanied by striking drumbeats that set a festive tone in the Banquet Hall. In keeping with tradition, the Minister presented a red envelope to the lion and received a mandarin symbolising good luck and prosperity for the year ahead.
In his address, Minister Mitchell highlighted the central role Ethnic Communities play in shaping Aotearoa New Zealand, bringing global experience, cultural richness and a strong sense of belonging. He reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to supporting communities and fostering inclusion.
His Excellency, Dr Wang Xiaolong, Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to New Zealand made some remark and sent his best wishes to the new year; while Mr Paul Chin, National President of the New Zealand Chinese Association, spoke about the significance of Lunar New Year and the value of cultural connection and harmony.
The evening’s programme was guided by Masters of Ceremonies Ms Nancy Lu, Member of Parliament, and Ms Summer Xia, who welcomed guests in multiple languages and acknowledged the many communities in New Zealand who celebrate Lunar New Year. They also reflected on the meaning of the Year of the Horse, which symbolises strength, energy, progress and confidence for the year ahead.
The programme featured cultural performances including Spring Breeze by ODA Dance Studio and an intergenerational showcase combining music, live painting of horses and calligraphy celebrating the Year of the Horse. The painting, by respected artist Stan Chan, featured two galloping horses, while the calligraphy by student Lyla Ren featured the character Fu (福), symbolising good fortune and expressing blessings for prosperity and harmony in the year ahead.
The celebration was attended by Hon Tama Potaka, Minister for Māori Development, Members of Parliament, the Race Relations Commissioner, and community leaders from across New Zealand. Former Speaker of the House, Rt Hon Sir David Carter, was also present.
Distinguished members of the diplomatic corps also joined the celebration, including Ambassador of Viet Nam, His Excellency Mr Phan Minh Giang, Singapore High Commissioner His Excellency Mr William Tan, Ambassador of the Philippines Her Excellency Ms Kira Christianne Azucena, and Chargé d’Affaires of the Embassy of the Republic of Korea Mr Joon-hoon Kim.
Guests enjoyed a festive atmosphere supported by decorative contributions from the Chinese Embassy and received traditional red envelopes provided by the New Zealand Chinese Association.
We thank all speakers, MCs, performers, partners and attendees for making the 2026 Lunar New Year celebration at Parliament a meaningful and memorable occasion.
Happy New Year. Xīnnián kuàilè! (新年快乐). Gōng hei fāt choi! (恭喜發財)
