As Filipinos in New Zealand welcome the New Year on December 31, familiar rituals fill homes: round fruits on tables, coins in pockets, polka dots worn at midnight, and noise to ward off bad luck. These traditions, deeply rooted in Chinese culture, have been quietly passed down through generations.
Round fruits, like oranges and grapes, symbolize coins and prosperity in Chinese belief. The practice of wearing polka dots mimics the appearance of coins, attracting wealth for the coming year. Noise-making—banging pots or setting off firecrackers—originates from Chinese folklore where loud sounds scare away evil spirits.
These customs have blended seamlessly into Filipino celebrations, reflecting centuries of cultural exchange. For the Filipino community in New Zealand, they serve as a bridge between heritage and new beginnings, making each New Year a festive nod to shared Asian roots.
Article source: filipinonews.nz | Image credit: Filipino News NZ
