Crowds flock to celebrate Chinese New Year

Haiyi Bao, Kacey Chen and Tina Lin prepare to go on stage at the Chinese New Year celebrations at ASB Show Grounds. Photo / Greg Bowker

Crowds flocked to Auckland's ASB Stadium today to take part in the Chinese New Year celebrations.

The colourful free annual festival welcomed the Year of the Monkey with a feast of entertainment.

The fun kicked off at 10am with an 11-person dragon dance.

Haiyi Bao, Kacey Chen and Tina Lin prepare to go on stage at the Chinese New Year celebrations at ASB Show Grounds. Photo / Greg Bowker

Throughout the day, thousands of revellers lapped up displays of martial arts and tai chi and were serenaded by Chinese pop singers.

There was a spectacular entertainment programme for everyone, featuring Chinese acrobats, cultural songs and dances -- while kids enjoyed outdoor games and rides.

Mums and dads got in on the action, too, browsing more than 200 specialist stalls featuring traditional Chinese arts and crafts while tucking into exotic hot delicacies.