Auckland Council has announced the return of World of Cultures – a vibrant multicultural festival that offers Aucklanders a chance to share and enjoy the diverse cultures from all over the world that make up Tāmaki Makaurau.
From 21 March, you can explore free and low-cost activities and events across the region that celebrate cultural food, dance, art, games, discussion, music and more.
This year’s World of Cultures festival brings with it an impressive programme of 120 events spread throughout Tāmaki Makaurau over two weeks, culminating with CultureFest, a full day closing event on Sunday 6 April.
Aucklanders can expect an exciting and varied series of events ranging from thrilling performances, film, art and music to inspiring talks and discussion, cooking classes and workshops, and even story time and cooking classes for tamariki – offering something for everyone to enjoy.
Auckland Council’s Head of Events Glynn Leggat says the team are thrilled to put together another World of Cultures programme for Aucklanders.
“We come back bigger and better, year on year, and it’s always great to see Aucklanders turning up to support our rich and diverse communities.”
“Every year, we kick off on International Race Relations Day (21 March), so fitting as a day to celebrate and connect with other cultures. Whether you’re into cooking, eating, dancing, music, art, travelling and learning something new, or simply enjoying a day out with friends and whānau, this festival is for you.”
Community Committee chair, Councillor Angela Dalton says the festival is a great opportunity to celebrate the diversity that makes up Tāmaki Makaurau.
“World of Cultures isn’t just a multicultural festival, it’s a snapshot of our people here in Auckland,” says Cr Dalton.
“It’s a wonderful opportunity to champion the rich tapestry that makes up our communities while taking a trip around the world through food, music and learning something new along the way.”
The World of Cultures festival is on for two weeks from 21 March and offers incredible opportunities to immerse yourself in cultures from all over the world.
Cooking classes: Sign up to cooking classes and learn to make Korean ttoekguk, Chinese dumplings and Hong Kong street food or bring the little ones along for cooking classes and learn the art of Japanese mochi and ohagi, and Vietnamese summer rolls.
Performances and Bonsai: Don’t miss out on a performance by The Transglobal Ensemble, a pop-up collaboration with musicians from culturally diverse backgrounds residing in Tāmaki Makaurau; discover the beauty of bonsai with Dragon Bonsai Day 2025, and much more.
CultureFest: CultureFest is a full-day celebratory event on Sunday 6 April that marks the end of the World of Cultures festival and brings with it over 100 captivating stalls celebrating diversity. Embark on a global journey through music and the culinary arts, marvel at the arts and crafts and unique fair-trade goods on offer. Plus, enjoy from the thrilling line-up of musicians like Stinky Jim, Swap Gomez, Ozi Ozia, Roskill Chinese Group, Ayar Khomus, KMK Kaumaakonga, Modle, Auckland Mariachi Band, Rubi Du and Latinoaotearoa.
For the full programme, please visit: worldofcultures.co.nz.
