Celebrations begin in Auckland this weekend
As the lights of Diwali shine across Aotearoa, we celebrate the immense contribution of New Zealand’s Indian community – now the third-largest ethnic group, with over 292,000 people calling NZ home.
What Diwali Represents
Diwali, or Deepavali, meaning “row of lights” in Sanskrit, begins this year on Monday 20th October. It’s one of the most important festivals in India, celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs and Jains alike. The festival lasts five days, marking the start of the Hindu New Year, and symbolises light triumphing over darkness and good over evil.
Homes are decorated with diyas (oil lamps) and rangoli – intricate patterns made with coloured powders or flowers to welcome good fortune and prosperity. The lights are also said to guide Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity, into homes for the year ahead.
Celebrations Already Lighting Up Aotearoa
Although Diwali isn’t until 20 October, celebrations are already beginning across Aotearoa. The BNZ Auckland Diwali Festival, happening this weekend 11th-12th October in Aotea Square, is the country’s largest Diwali celebration. It is a family-friendly event with many free activities, including traditional performances, workshops, vegetarian food, and light-filled art, concluding with a fireworks finale on the Sunday evening. For more information, visit: https://heartofthecity.co.nz/auckland-events/diwali-2025?gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=10130902232&gbraid=0AAAAAD19-09CHzBI63OyvZ4num-DuoQ1Q&gclid=Cj0KCQjwl5jHBhDHARIsAB0YqjyWnWbAHchp-5CbdsEqnXqVgE42gOA1FY1OJU9skMafg1Ez6peyXsAaAv4kEALw_wcB
It’s a wonderful reminder that inclusion shines brightest when everyone can join in.
Why Cultural Understanding Matters
Inclusion begins with curiosity and understanding – taking time to learn about and engage with cultural celebrations like Diwali, and recognising how they enrich the fabric of our shared identity across Aotearoa.
Celebrating Diwali isn’t just about lights and festivities; it’s about acknowledging and valuing the cultural diversity, knowledge, and connection Indian New Zealanders bring to our workplaces, communities and society at large.
From All of Us at Equity Matters
May this Diwali inspire more light, learning, engagement and inclusion across every organisation.
