1822 days ago

Ola taxi drivers in Auckland will be decorating their vehicles in colourful displays of lights, flowers and bling to coincide with this weekends' Diwali celebrations.

Brian from New Lynn

Diwali - the festival of light - is officially celebrated on October 27, but this year events are being held in Auckland this weekend on October 12 and 13. Crowds of up to 50,000 people are expected over the two days of celebration, which will centre around Aotea Square in the CBD. Ola driver Bankim Patel, of Avondale, immigrated to Auckland from Gujarat, India 17 years ago, and says decorating his car is a fun way to celebrate his culture. "In India – everything is lit up for Diwali, from houses to temples and shops. It’s like Christmas for us," Mr Patel said. "Adding colourful lights to my car is a way to share a little of the festival mood and party atmosphere of Diwali with my passengers. "I hope the lights act as a bit of a conversation starter, because one of the beauties of living in New Zealand is that we celebrate all kinds of cultures." Ola New Zealand Country Manager Brian Dewil said Diwali is a great opportunity to celebrate the diversity of its driver community. "Ola has more than 7000 drivers across the country, who come from a diverse range of cultural and religious backgrounds," Mr Dewil said. "Offering our drivers the opportunity to light up their cars for what is one of the most important festivals of the year for many of them, reflects that."
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8 days ago

Poll: What special qualities should a 5-star New Zealand airport hotel at our largest international airport have?

Pullman Novotel

Te Arikinui Pullman Auckland Airport is New Zealand’s only 5-star airport hotel, given its incredibly close proximity to the airport, the convenience of walking to the airport is a major highlight but there are plenty of other features that make it special. Find out more

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What special qualities should a 5-star New Zealand airport hotel at our largest international airport have?
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Be Loved this Spring! Reduced fee dog adoptions at SPCA start today

The Team from SPCA Auckland - Centres & Op Shops

From 5-20 October only, SPCA dog and puppy adoption fees are 25% off. Plus, every dog adopter gets a free Simparica Trio flea, tick & worm treatment, and discount voucher.

We have more than 300 adoption-ready dogs and puppies nationwide, waiting for their happy forever after.

Visit www.spca.nz... to start your journey together.