Auckland floods: Auckland Lantern Festival cancelled for fourth year in a row

The lantern festival traditionally marks the close of the Lunar New Year Festival, which this year celebrates the Year of the Rabbit. Photo / Natalie Slade

For the fourth time in a row, the Auckland Lantern Festival has been cancelled.

The 2023 festival was due to open on Thursday and run until Sunday, February 5 at the Manukau Sports Bowl.

The lantern festival traditionally marks the close of the Lunar New Year Festival, which this year celebrates the Year of the Rabbit.

“We understand this news is disappointing after three previous cancellations. All involved in planning the event were looking forward to its return, but the health and safety of Aucklanders and all those involved in the festival is our top priority,” Tātaki Auckland Unlimited Head of Major Events Chris Simpson said.

“We acknowledge the disappointment that Aucklanders will be feeling. Special cultural occasions are the fabric of our region, and we are all gutted that we won’t be able to celebrate this iconic festival for a fourth year in a row.”

Simpson said the decision to cancel the event was not an easy one and was made after consultation with local authorities and with the support of community leaders.

“The decision-making considered a range of factors, including the safety of staff, stallholders, performers, volunteers and patrons, transport options, advice from civil defence, the long-range forecast, and the condition of the grounds to determine if we could deliver a successful event,” Simpson added.