Polyfest celebrated its 42nd year of embracing ethnic diversity in New Zealand with up to 20 high schools taking part.
The event was held in the Dallington Red Zone on Saturday.
Riki Welsh from the University of Canterbury said the venue was a huge change for Polyfest.
"This year we have moved into the red zone, which is actually really awesome because it meant we could do our part to make it come back alive."
He said the location for the event also meant people driving past could stop by and join in.