On 14th June, the 6th Chocolatte International Food Festival was held, jointly hosted by Fo Guang Shan Christchurch and the Buddha’s Light International Association (BLIA) South Island. The event welcomed a record-breaking crowd of 2,500 attendees. Guided by FGS New Zealand Abbess Manshin and led by BLIA South Island President James LOW, the event featured over 20 food stalls offering international cuisine. Ten members from BLIA Auckland, led by Elder Advisor Lintao YU, travelled south to support the event.
After a week of cold and rainy weather, the sun came out just in time, bringing warm and clear skies. Ilam MP Dr Hamish Campbell and Riccarton Councillor Tyla Harrison-Hunt attended the festival and praised the event for bringing the community together and supporting the local economy.
Nearly 2,000 Wise Words of the Founding Master of FGS, Venerable Master, were shared with visitors. Abbess also created a floral art display along the Time Tunnel corridor to express the peaceful essence of Chan. Attendees visited the Shrine to make incense offerings and experience calligraphy. Inspiring stories from Bodhi Light Tales, produced by the FGS Institute of Humanistic Buddhism, were played throughout the day to encourage reflection and inner wisdom.
Artist Gregorio Gary Umali, currently featured in the Harmony and Hue Oil Painting Exhibition, held a live painting demonstration and interacted with visitors in the art gallery. Annamaria Berta, owner of Panna Soaps, led a natural soap-making workshop, where participants created their own eco-friendly soaps using custom colours and fragrances.
The event reflects the spirit of Giving, a core value taught by Venerable Master Hsing Yun. Over the years, the annual Chocolatte event has become a beloved local tradition, with growing participation each year. It strengthens local connections through hope and wisdom and lays a meaningful foundation for values to take root in everyday life.