On the first and second of November, we were honoured to support Queenstown's first-ever Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) celebration, an incredible event created and hosted by Tacos Jaguar.
This heartfelt gathering brought our community together to honour the memory of loved ones and experience the vibrant traditions of Mexico. Filled with culture, food, music, and storytelling, the event was a beautiful blend of remembrance and celebration, and we were proud to play a part in helping it come to life.
The Significance of Día de los Muertos
Día de los Muertos is a deeply meaningful tradition in Mexican culture. It is a time to honour and celebrate the lives of loved ones who have passed away, welcoming their spirits back for a joyous reunion. This celebration is not about mourning but about embracing the connection between life and death with love, laughter, and vibrant traditions.
At the Kiwi Kit Community Trust, now transitioning to the Lakes Multicultural Collective, we believe in the importance of supporting cultural celebrations that foster connection and understanding within our community.
By partnering with Tacos Jaguar, Latinos for New Zealand, and Searchlight Brewery for this event, we aimed to help create a space where people from all backgrounds could learn, share, and celebrate the beauty of Mexican culture.
A Colourful Celebration
The event took place at Searchlight Brewery, which was transformed into a vibrant and welcoming space by the Tacos Jaguar team. Bursts of colour filled the venue, with papel picado, intricate paper banners, fluttering in the air to symbolise the wind, one of the four elements central to the tradition. The highlight was the stunning ofrenda (altar), which guests contributed to by bringing photos and mementos of their loved ones, creating a deeply personal and meaningful tribute.
Guests learned about the symbolism behind the altar’s elements:
Three Levels: Representing heaven, earth, and the underworld.
Candles: Guiding spirits from all directions.
Marigolds (Cempasúchitl): Vibrant blooms whose scent helps spirits find their way back.
Pan de Muerto (Bread of the Dead): Symbolising the cycle of life and death, adorned with dough "bones" and sugar to honour remembrance.
Tastes of Tradition
One of the most memorable aspects of the event was the authentic food and drink, prepared by Tacos Jaguar and Mi Pueblito Mexican Bakery. Guests were treated to warm Mexican hot chocolate and pan de muerto, a traditional sweet bread baked with love and care. The comforting flavours and rich symbolism of the food made the experience even more meaningful. Attendees also enjoyed delicious Mexican street food, which added to the festive and vibrant atmosphere.
Music, Memories, and Connection
Traditional Mexican music, including iconic songs by Juan Gabriel, played throughout the night. A special “La Hora de Juan Gabriel” brought a sense of joy and unity to the event as attendees shared in the universal language of music. Guests also shared stories and memories of their loved ones, creating moments of laughter, connection, and heartfelt reflection.
A Community Effort
We want to express our deepest gratitude to Tacos Jaguar for creating and leading this extraordinary event, and for inviting us to support their vision. Their passion for sharing Mexican culture with Queenstown is inspiring, and their dedication made this celebration truly unforgettable.
Special thanks also go to:
Latinos for New Zealand, for their collaboration and ongoing support in showcasing the richness of Latin American culture.
Searchlight Brewery Queenstown, for providing the perfect venue and creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Welcoming Communities, for their ongoing support of the multicultural fabric of New Zealand.
And to everyone who attended, shared photos, and contributed to this beautiful cultural occasion.
For the Kiwi Kit Community Trust, supporting cultural celebrations like Día de los Muertos is part of our mission to foster connection, inclusivity, and understanding within the Queenstown community. By partnering with organisations like Tacos Jaguar, Welcoming Communities, and Latinos for New Zealand, we can help amplify the voices and traditions of our multicultural region, creating opportunities for learning, sharing, and unity.
Día de los Muertos is more than just a celebration—it’s a vibrant embrace of life, death, and everything in between. Thank you for letting us support this incredible event. We look forward to being part of many more cultural celebrations in the future.
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