Ashburton’s first Holi festival was a fun, colourful affair on Sunday.
Held in the Ashburton Domain Oval, the family-focused event celebrated Holi, the Hindu Festival of Colour.
Erratic weather kept big numbers away, but those attending enjoyed a taste of culture, and at the same time covered themselves and others in a selection of coloured powders.
Those celebrating the occasion included Rangitata MP Andrew Falloon, Ashburton mayor Donna Favel, councillor Thelma Bell and members of the Hindu community.
The event was co-ordinated by the Ashburton Indian Multicultural Charitable Trust and also featured Indian food, games for adults and children, including musical chairs, Hindi music and stage performances.
Trust member Bikash Sukul said the weather had put people off, but the event has been enjoyed by those attending.
He said Holi would be held locally again next year and the Hindu culture shared with others in Mid Canterbury.
