Fo Guang Shan Buddhist Temple celebrates New Year

新年快乐 (Xīnnián kuàilè) - Happy New Year!

恭喜发财 (Gōngxǐ fācái) - Wishing you prosperity!

Last week I had the pleasure of attending the Chinese New Year celebrations at Fo Guang Shan Buddhist Temple in Flat Bush.

Having been for the past few years, I knew what to expect - wonderful mix of contemplation, community, and celebration. We were fortunate to be joined by our local MP and Prime Minister Rt Hon Christopher Luxon, as well as Minister for Ethnic Communities Hon Mark Mitchell MP and local MP Nancy Lu.

There was a massive turnout and special thanks to the New Zealand Police for their support in managing the crowds, staying through to the very end.