On 22 June 2024, Fo Guang Shan Christchurch and the BLIA South Island hosted the 5th Chocolatte International Food Festival, attracting nearly 20 local stalls and over 1,800 visitors to enjoy coffee, chocolate and specialty foods.
The event featured a variety of activities and attractions. Outdoor stalls offered international cuisine, including traditional handmade cookies, cheesy pasta, the famous SHE chocolate, French pastries such as canelés and a selection of delightful cakes and desserts. One of the highlights was the sugar painting stall, showcasing a national intangible heritage of Chinese culture. This attracted both adults and children who watched and purchased the sugar painting. From Chinese zodiac to traditional calligraphy, these impressive artworks were created using specially formulated syrup and drawn with a spoon.
The organisers invited Ken SHI, a well-known judge of New Zealand coffee latte art competitions, to conduct a coffee seminar. He explained the roasting process and characteristics of different coffee beans. His passionate sharing allowed attendees to learn about the coffee flavours and tasting various rich and aromatic coffee blends. The program also included children’s Guzheng performances, aerobics dance and local vocal performances, providing a joyful experience for everyone.
A paper clay workshop was led by Barbara CHIANG, guiding participants to knead and shape clay to create floral designs. It was a fun and engaging activity originating from the French Royal court, where attendees enjoyed the creative process and made gifts for family and friends.
Visitors were drawn to the sutra transcription area to practise calligraphy and find inner peace. Many made light offerings, paid homage and made wishes in the Shrine. Role-playing activities were organised by English Dharma Service members, who transformed into wizards from Harry Potter movies and fairies from Peter Pan and interacted with the crowd. Many attendees eagerly took photos, making this one of the highlights of the event.
FGS NZ Venerable Abbess Manshin led the Auckland YAD team to assist with the event and personally guided volunteers in conducting activities properly. President of the BLIA South Island, Bernie SIEW expressed gratitude for the collective efforts of the BLIA members in making the event successful. The Temple distributed nearly 1,200 copies of Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s Wise Words.
The stall owners and attendees appreciated the thorough organisation by the Temple team that created a lively and joyous atmosphere for community interaction. Some stall owners sold out their food even before the event ended. FGS Christchurch’s Chocolatte International Food Festival, combining cultural arts with tradition and modernity, has gained a strong reputation in Christchurch as one of the most anticipated cultural events of the year.