About 100 people visited the tranquil setting of the Lan Yuan Dunedin Chinese Garden to create their own paper lanterns, using templates to add a snake or create their own designs to celebrate the new year.
Among them were sisters Addie and Lissy Barnett, of Mosgiel, who designed their own lanterns.
The pair said they had no idea what Chinese New Year was when they arrived at the garden, but were quickly educated while they participated in the associated activities yesterday.
They learned the lanterns symbolised people letting go of the past year, and welcoming the new year with good fortune.
Lily pad lanterns were also made, many of which were floated on the ponds in the garden.
Other new year activities included tying a ribbon to the wishing tree, lighting incense for prosperity, or creating felted fortune cookies.
The event was the culmination of the Dunedin Chinese Cultural Festival which started on January 26.
