A festival bursting with culture is coming to Tauranga, showcasing the rich traditions of Asia.
Bay of Plenty Indonesia Inc has organised a collaboration event called Asia’s Harmony Festival showcasing the cultural heritage of Indonesia, China, the Philippines and South Korea.
On Saturday, April 12, from 10am-4pm, the Queen Elizabeth Youth Centre will host an estimated audience of 700-1000 people.
Bay of Plenty Indonesia Inc will organise the event with New Zealand China Friendship, Tauranga Filipino Society Inc, and Tauranga South Korean Community.
Bay of Plenty Indonesia Community Inc. chairwoman Syully Dobson, Mida Hita Maria, Kelly Lictao, Yolly Bennell, Tika Silva, Tina Zang, Asa Porter, Zoe Silva, 9, Astik Doran, Dedeh Karyati, Machy Ann Lictao, 9, Mariame Lictao, 8. Photo / Brydie Thompson
Asia’s Harmony Festival will spotlight Indonesia’s extraordinary cultural diversity.
“With more than 1300 ethnic groups and more than 250 languages, Indonesia is the most diverse country in the world, and we are excited to showcase what lies beyond the well-trodden tourist paths from Sabang to Merauke,” said BOP Indonesia Community Inc chairwoman Syully Dobson.
“This festival goes beyond Indonesia, fostering collaboration with various Asian nations eager to share our similar, unique cultural heritage, authentic cuisine and more.
“Our festival will explore the remarkable similarities in cultural heritage between Indonesia and the nominated countries, revealing the fascinating stories behind these connections.”
Dobson said Asia’s Harmony Festival aims to delve deeper, highlighting the intertwined histories and cultural nuances that unite them. “This rich tapestry has never been displayed in Tauranga before.”
Tika Silva, Asa Porter and Astik Doran get ready for the Asia's Harmony Festival. Photo / Brydie Thompson
The event is open to all – and will offer cultural performances, documentary clips, a fashion show, a selfie with traditional costumes, dances, tourism and discovery tents, a kids’ corner with traditional games, Indonesian traditional instruments Angklung, authentic food display, and food vendors.
Among dignitaries attending is MP Sam Uffindell.
“As someone who has lived, worked and travelled through Asia, I am a huge supporter of our Asian communities in Tauranga,” Uffindell said. “We are very fortunate they decided to make Tauranga home.
“Our Asian communities make a significant contribution to our city. They have an MP that is a huge supporter, and I can’t wait to join them at Asia’s Harmony Festival next month.”
Councillor Rod Taylor will speak at the festival on behalf of Tauranga City’s mayor and fellow councillors.
“Asia’s Harmony Festival is a wonderful opportunity to recognise the culture that helps to shape our diverse city.
“These community events celebrate our growing diversity and showcase the talents, traditions and heritage of our local community, and help us to create more connections with each other.”
Asia’s Harmony Festival is on Saturday, April 12, from 10am-4pm, at the Queen Elizabeth Youth Centre, 71 Eleventh Ave, Tauranga City, Entry is via a small koha donation.