On Saturday 6 June, Te Puke came together to celebrate the rich cultural diversity that makes our community so vibrant and unique at the inaugural Te Puke Festival of Cultures.
The day was filled with colour, music, food, dance and connection as people from across the wider Western Bay gathered to learn about, experience and celebrate the many cultures that call Te Puke home.
Celebrations began at the Capitol Theatre, where attendees enjoyed a series of free cultural workshops and activities. Visitors had the opportunity to take part in a traditional harakeke weaving workshop, explore cultural displays and enjoy interactive experiences designed to share the stories, traditions and customs of cultures from around the world.
From there, the action moved to the Te Puke War Memorial Hall where audiences were treated to an incredible six hours of cultural performances. The stage came alive with music, dance and storytelling from a wide range of cultures, showcasing the talents of local performers and cultural groups.
Performances represented cultures from India, Vanuatu, Chile, Brazil, Indonesia, Cambodia, the Cook Islands and Aotearoa, alongside many others, highlighting the rich cultural tapestry that exists within our community. Local schools also played an important role in the programme, proudly sharing their own cultural performances and helping create an event that truly reflected the diversity of Te Puke.
Outside the hall, festival-goers enjoyed a variety of international food vendors, giving people the opportunity to sample authentic flavours from around the world while connecting with friends, neighbours and visitors.
The Festival of Cultures was proudly brought to the community through a partnership between Western Bay of Plenty District Council, COLAB Community Trust, EPIC Te Puke and Welcoming Communities, with support from a dedicated team of volunteers, performers, vendors and community organisations.
EPIC Te Puke was thrilled to be part of such a genuine celebration of the people who make our community what it is today.
One of Te Puke’s greatest strengths is its diversity. The Festival of Cultures provided an opportunity to learn from one another, share traditions, celebrate our differences and recognise the many cultures that contribute to the identity and success of our town.
Events like this remind us that while we may come from different backgrounds, languages and traditions, we are all part of one community. By embracing and celebrating our diversity, we create a stronger, more connected and more welcoming Te Puke for everyone.
A huge thank you goes to all the performers, workshop facilitators, food vendors, volunteers, sponsors and attendees who helped make the inaugural Te Puke Festival of Cultures such a memorable success.
We can’t wait to do it all again next time!
