Record numbers of Chinese tourists are set to visit New Zealand this month, taking advantage of the two-week Chinese New Year break.
A record crowd enjoyed the start of the celebrations in Dunedin.
A colourful dragon parade kicked off festivities last night in the Octagon, accompanied by the sound of traditional drumming.
Dunedin has gone big with its Chinese New Year celebrations, since the city's authentic Chinese Garden opened in 2008.
"It's a celebration for the Dunedin Chinese community, which goes back a very long way," says Dunedin Mayor Dave Cull. "It goes right back to the gold rush days."
A crowd of around 10,000 enjoyed the evening of entertainment, with the event showcasing a range of different cultures.
Among the guests were a professional dance and acrobatic troupe from China's Yunnan province and the festivities were all part of welcoming in the Year of the Monkey.
A warm night ensured a good crowd for the evening's grand finale, the spectacular fireworks display lighting up the night sky for Dunedin's second round of New Year celebrations.
Newshub.
