Multicultural Councils throughout New Zealand will mark Race Relations Day in March with cultural festivals and other activities.

Race Relations Day is New Zealand’s version of the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, which is observed in many countries around the world. In Australia, it is called Harmony Day.

The events organised by multicultural councils will mostly be held on weekends before and after the actual day (Wednesday 21 March), to ensure maximum public participation.

Some of the biggest festivals organised by multicultural councils will take place in the Bay of Plenty, Nelson, Counties-Manukau, the Hutt Valley and Southland, which have in past years together attracted many thousands of people. South Canterbury and North Otago will continue their tradition of Race Relations Day dinners and cultural concerts, and Rotorua will have a multicultural football tournament.

The New Zealand Federation of Multicultural Councils partners with the New Zealand Human Rights Commission to celebrate Race Relations Day as a contribution to the New Zealand Diversity Action Programme. The theme for this year is “Aotearoa, A Fair Go for All.”