In the capital city of New Zealand, there were also two venues for programmes. In the morning, a wreath-laying ceremony was held in the Magyar Millennium Park, or as many people know it, the Hungarian Garden, to commemorate the 1956 Revolution and the unveiling of newly engraved bricks bearing the Hungarian name.
In the afternoon, the commemoration was replaced by entertainment, as the Hungarian Picnic began in Avalon Park, offering a wide range of opportunities for those who wished to immerse themselves in Hungarian culture, traditions and gastronomy.
For those looking for Hungarian flavours, there were food stalls serving goulash and potato noodles from Anzil Restaurant, lángos, fried cheese, kürtős cake and bejgli from Tom's Chimney Cakes & Langosh, and the chance to buy bacon and sausages from Auckland's Hungarian Sausage Box. Those who were thirsty after all the goodies could refresh themselves with a variety of Hungarian wines and pálinka specialities created by OL'Castle. And for those who wanted to add a Hungarian touch to their homes, could buy beautiful lace products on site.
In addition to shopping, there was also the opportunity to do brain training - after all, how could a Hungarian event be complete without the Rubik's cube? Of course, there was also plenty of activities for the children, and they could also use the playground on site.
Petra Póda KCSP scholarship holder, held a dance workshop where those who wanted to try the aforementioned dishes could learn Moldavian circle dancing, and I taught the brave visitors the secrets of using the bullwhip!
The Embassy of Hungary was also represented at the event: they offered a lot of useful advice and helped answer all sorts of questions. With their help, a teqball court was also set up, where everyone could learn the basics of the sport.
The success of the event was reflected in the hundreds of people who attended and the positive feedback from participants. In addition to old friends, club members and acquaintances, there were also a good number of people who discovered the Hungarian community as a result of the event.
Ágota Győri
