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Monday, 16 March 2026

Creating a greater sense of belonging at Queenstown Multicultural Festival

Queenstown Multicultural Festival returns Saturday 21 March at Queenstown Events Centre.

Queenstown Multicultural Festival 2025 Timshoultzphotography

A vibrant day packed with culture, inclusion and fun is set to bring communities together this March, when the Queenstown Multicultural Festival returns for the fourth time.

The cultural event, which is jointly hosted by Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) and Queenstown Multicultural Festival Trust (QMFT) will return to the Queenstown Events Centre, Frankton on 21 March, from 10.00am-5.00pm.

QMFT Lead Organiser Eric Lim encouraged the community to share in a vibrant celebration of the district’s rich cultural tapestry.

“Whether you’re a local or a visitor, we invite you to experience the warmth, creativity and community spirit that makes our place a truly global village,” said Mr Lim.

Queenstown Lakes Mayor John Glover said it’s been rewarding to see the festival continue to grow into one of the district’s most cherished events, where traditions, arts and stories from around the world come to life.

“The festival aligns with New Zealand Race Relations Day, observed annually on 21 March. It’s a day to come together, learn from each other and celebrate the diversity that enriches communities,” said Mayor Glover.

This year’s festival will also be especially significant with the attendance of Race Relations Commissioner, Dr Melissa Derby, from Te Kāhui Tika Tangata │Human Rights Commission.

“Dr Derby’s presence reflects a shared commitment to upholding the rights of all people in Aotearoa New Zealand, and promoting respectful dialogue, common connections and shared values. We’re honoured to welcome her to this important celebration of unity, diversity, and belonging,” he said.

This year’s theme Whakarongo kia mārama - Listen to understand, reflects conversations taking place across Aotearoa New Zealand about race relations. The theme invites people to listen openly to one another’s experiences, share stories and find common ground.

Sustainability will also be a focus on the day. Lightfoot will once again be managing bike parking at the venue, encouraging attendees to cycle where possible.

Thanks to Sustainable Queenstown, the DISHrupt reusable system will be in place to reduce single-use waste. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own cup or utensils along.

QLDC Welcoming Communities Advisor Silvia Dancose said she was looking forward to seeing the festival come to life again after months of planning and hard work by a dedicated team of volunteers.

“This will be a day packed with culture and fun, made possible by the incredible efforts of our community volunteers. I really hope people from across the district will come along to show their support and enjoy this free event,” said Ms Dancose.

“We’re proud to be involved in such a wonderful celebration that brings the community together and helps build a welcoming and inclusive district,” she said.

For more information, visit www.queenstownmulticulturalfestival.co.nz.

ENDS|KUA MUTU.

Media contact 

communications@qldc.govt.nz

TEL: 03 441 1802

Queenstown Multicultural Festival info@queenstownmulticulturalfestival.co.nz or call 021 143 1332.

FURTHER INFORMATION | Kā pāroko tāpiri