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The joy of the Indonesian Community Christmas event in Palmerston North - Diplomatic Corner                                                                       KBRI New Zealand

There is something unique about the Christmas celebration of the Indonesian Embassy in Wellington, New Zealand this year. Open House of the Christmas celebration, which is usually held at the Indonesian Embassy in Wellington or Ambassador’s residence, was held in Palmerston North City, about 180 km from Wellington, Saturday (19/12).

The event was very lively and attended by more than 400 Indonesian and diaspora citizens not only from Palmerston North, but also from surrounding cities such as Wellington, Whanganui, Paraparaumu, Hasting, Napier and even from Auckland. In addition, a member of the Palmerston North regional parliament from the newly elected Labor Party, Tangi Utikere was present.This year, the Indonesian Embassy in Wellington came to get closer and stay in touch with the Indonesian people in various cities in New Zealand.The selection of the city of Palmerston North was based on concentration considerations the largest Indonesian community besides Wellington and Auckland, especially students from Papua and the position of the city makes it easier for Indonesians from other cities to come to visit.Besides, the Covid-19 pandemic situation in New Zealand enabled the open house event to be implemented.

In his speech, Indonesian Ambassador to New Zealand, Samoa and Tonga, Tantowi Yahya stated that besides being visited, the government also comes to visit its citizens and Indonesaian Diasporas and friends of Indonesia. Therefore, similar implementation will also be carried out in other cities such as Auckland. This event is expected to strengthen brotherhood and unity among Indonesian citizens.

In the bright day and cool weather, the Indonesian diaspora and people who were present really enjoyed the festivity of the Christmas event which was held from morning to evening. Padang food, Malang Meatballs, Gejrot tofu and various snacks from the market, cold drinks and coffee were available to accompany residents dancing Poco Poco, Maumere to Dangdutan. The community welcomed cheerfully and happily the open house event which was lively, intimate and memorable.