One Love Charity: Lighting The Path Of Devotion

22 October 2025

Each year, One Love Charity brings colour, connection, and compassion to Tauranga through two iconic celebrations, the Holi Festival of Colours in March and the Diwali Festival of Lights in October. Both celebrations bring people from all walks of life together to share culture, food, music, and joy.

This year’s Diwali, held once again at Tauranga’s Historic Village, carried the theme of devotion, a reminder to live with honesty, heart, and care for one another. The event brought together more than 3,500 people from across the community to share in the celebration.

“It’s about looking within, lighting a diya, or throwing colours as a symbol to bring this light into our lives,” explains Bela Reid, One Love’s secretary and event organiser. “Devotion is the opposite of deceit, it’s living truthfully with heart.”

The festival grounds glowed with candlelight and music, while the scent of freshly cooked food filled the air. Families, friends, and visitors gathered to dance, eat, and enjoy the sights of Diwali together.

Beyond the fun and colour, One Love’s mahi centres on appreciation and respect – values reflected in how the charity recognises its people. Artists are paid fairly for their work, and volunteers are thanked with small gestures like food vouchers or shared meals.

“It’s about appreciation and dignity,” Bela shares. “Thanks to our funders and sponsors, we can show our artists and volunteers that their contributions matter.”

Volunteers are the heartbeat of every event. What began as a small group of friends and family lending a hand has grown into a thriving community network, with many new helpers joining through the Volunteering Services platform.

Long-time volunteer, Caio Martins, shares his insights on giving back and what keeps him coming back. “I’ve been volunteering with One Love Charity for three years now. It is always an enriching experience in a welcoming, positive environment. It is a beautiful opportunity to connect with people from diverse backgrounds”.

Sharing a similar experience, fellow volunteer, Amira Roa, reflects on the sense of shared purpose that drives her involvement. “In the two years I have volunteered, both Holi and Diwali have been so much fun. Everyone is so welcoming regardless of who you are,” she says.

Through celebrations like Holi and Diwali, One Love Charity continues to build connection, joy, and a sense of belonging for everyone who calls Tauranga home.

If you’re keen to volunteer, or if your group needs a helping hand, Volunteering Services can connect you. Learn more at www.volunteeringservices.org.nz or call (07) 987 0920.

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