Christchurch , 13 December – Jay Kumar Patel had no idea he was about to became the proud owner of a cricket bat signed by the Black Caps when he filled in an ANZ questionnaire at the 2019 Diwali Market Day in Christchurch. “It’s a great feeling to have won, I’m a big cricket fan and I’ll be putting the bat to good use thanks to ANZ,” said Jay Kumar.
“I visit the Christchurch Diwali festival each year. It’s a great way to celebrate our culture and the Indian community here in New Zealand”. Locals attending the festival could enter the competition at the ANZ stall. Of several hundred entries, Jay Kumar’s name was randomly selected as the winner.
The Christchurch Diwali Market Day, sponsored by ANZ since 2016, has seen significant growth since its inception in 2008 and now sees more than 20,000 visitors each year. ANZ also sponsors Diwali festivals in Wellington and Invercargill, which were held this year on 24 November and 19 October, respectively.
“It’s a privilege to support the Diwali festivals that bring so much joy to our communities and a cultural diversity that enriches New Zealand,” said Cassandra Lee, ANZ Senior Manager – Migrant Business and Community Development.“As migration grows in New Zealand, the vibrant, hardworking and forward-thinking Indian community plays an increasingly significant role in our national identity.”
ANZ also celebrates Diwali through special staff and customer events held across New Zealand.
