“The Lunar New Year is an important celebration for many of our communities here in New Zealand," said Minister for Diversity, Inclusion and Ethnic Communities Priyanca Radhakrishnan, who hosted the event. Radhakrishnan said a 2018 census showed that the population for Chinese ethnic groups in New Zealand has reached nearly 250,000, about 5 percent of the country's total population, acknowledging "the significant contributions the Chinese communities have made -- and continue to make to the economic, social and cultural progress of New Zealand." 

Chinese Ambassador to New Zealand Wang Xiaolong said that the people-to-people links between China and New Zealand have a long history and have played a foundational role in the development of our bilateral relations. The Chinese community has not only become an integral part of the country's multicultural landscape, but also served as a unique bridge and bond in enhancing mutual understanding and friendship between the two countries. 

With cross-border travels bouncing back, China has listed New Zealand as "one of the first 20 or so pilot countries to resume outbound group tours," said the ambassador. The symbolism of this measure speaks to the close bond between the two countries. The clear signal it sends will help to bring widely missed tourists from China back to New Zealand," he said. 

The first event to celebrate the Chinese Lunar New Year was held at the New Zealand Parliament in 2002. Except during the pandemic period, the celebration is held every year.