A tourist (R) takes selfies with staff members wearing traditional Chinese ethnic costumes during an event of New Zealand Children's Chinese Cultural Festival in Auckland, New Zealand, March 16, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

New Zealand Children's Chinese Cultural Festival was celebrated in Auckland on Sunday, showcasing Chinese heritage through captivating performances and engaging activities for children and families.

The festival provided a unique opportunity for children and families to immerse themselves in Chinese culture while fostering cultural exchange and understanding within the local New Zealand community.

Attendees experienced spectacular displays of traditional Chinese music, dance, magic show and martial arts. Highlights include the iconic lion and dragon dances, folk performances, and live instrumental showcases that reflect the rich history and artistry of Chinese heritage. A giant panda mascot attracted many children to take photos with it.

Children also had the chance to participate in hands-on sessions such as calligraphy lessons, learning basic Chinese characters, and creating traditional crafts like paper-cutting, lantern decorating and shadow puppet play.

A baby interacts with a panda-shaped mascot during an event of New Zealand Children's Chinese Cultural Festival in Auckland, New Zealand, March 16, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

Participants also enjoyed classic Chinese pastimes, including shuttlecock, or jianzi, and the ancient throwing game pitch-pot, or touhu. These traditional games aimed to engage attendees in fun and educational experiences while deepening their understanding of Chinese custom.

The event was attended by community leaders, a member of the parliament, representatives from the China Cultural Centre in Auckland and hundreds of local families and children.