Parnell Festival of Roses is all set to paint Auckland with the colours and fragrances of blooming roses and a sense of community.
The beloved community event, with a history spanning more than 30 years, is back in full swing, celebrating the vibrant blooms of the Parnell Rose Garden on November 5, 2023.
Hosted by Waitemata Local Board, the free festival has always been a day of joy, unity, and horticultural celebration for Aucklanders.
This year's event promises many highlights that will captivate and entertain attendees of all ages. From cultural performances and food trucks to craft stalls and activities designed for the whole family, this festival is a true community affair.
Talking to The Indian Weekender, Waitemata Local Board Chair Genevieve Sage says, "Parnell Festival of Roses has been around for more than 30 years and is an opportunity for the community to come together to celebrate the roses in full bloom while enjoying a festival atmosphere. This year, the festival retains its focus on the event's roots—horticulture and roses."
This year, the festival has introduced several exciting new features. One of the most interesting is the ‘Cutting Swap’, a unique stall that allows plant enthusiasts to grow their own plant collection at the festival.
“Bring along your plant cutting from home and swap it for something new! There is no limit on what you can bring–house plants, natives, fruit or veggies. The options are endless! It's a fantastic way to expand the variety of one's collection and promote community exchange. We're excited about the cutting swap and seeing what the public brings along,” says Sage.
For the first time, there will be a dedicated ‘Quiet Room’. Run by Spectroom, this space will offer a peaceful haven for attendees of all ages to take a break from the bustling festival atmosphere. The room, filled with sensory activities and helpful tools, will cater to those who need a moment of tranquillity.
In addition to these novel additions, the festival welcomes Saving Hope Foundation, which will be on-site with adoptable puppies, offering visitors a chance to find a new family member. The attendees can also meet Steve and DJ, the friendly petting goats who love pets and photographs.
Four creative community members have put significant effort into creating upcycled gardens for Upcycle Garden Challenge. Visitors are invited to admire their handiwork, with prizes to be awarded on the main stage.
The event is not just about fun and entertainment; it offers a range of free workshops for those eager to delve deeper into gardening, sustainability, and growing their food.
Workshops will be available for all age groups, from zumba and garba dance classes to origami folding and composting tutorials. To keep energy levels up, more than 20 food stalls featuring a variety of cuisines will be present throughout the day.
Visitors can anticipate a day filled with family-friendly entertainment and activities. “We have made efforts to ensure accessibility, with mobility parking and audio-described guided tours available for visually impaired and low vision attendees and their families.
“For those looking to minimise their carbon footprint, bike parking will be available, as street parking around Dove-Myer Robinson Park is limited. Check the Auckland Transport website for information on ways to get there on public transport,” says Sage.
The anticipation about the festival is building up. Neena Sharma, a south Auckland resident, says, "I look forward to attending the festival. I expect it to be a day filled with roses, entertainment, education, and delicious food. "
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What: Parnell Festival of Roses
When: November 5, 2023
Timing: 11am–4pm
Where: Parnell Rose Gardens, Dove-Myer Robinson Park, 85-87 Gladstone Road, Parnell
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