New Zealand parliament to mark China's Lunar New Year

The New Zealand parliament will honor the Chinese community's contribution to the country on Tuesday with an official event to mark the Year of the Sheep.

Prime Minister John Key would join around 200 people at the evening function where they would be welcomed with a traditional lion dance, Ethnic Communities Minister Peseta Sam Lotu-Iiga said in a statement.

"This evening's event recognizes the contribution of the Chinese community in helping New Zealand become more diverse, prosperous and culturally richer," said Lotu-Iiga.

The Chinese population made up around 170,000 or 4.3 percent of the total population.

"Chinese New Year gives us an opportunity to take stock, to celebrate our achievements and set goals. It is a time to lay the foundations for a brighter and more prosperous future," said Lotu- Iiga.

"This is the Year of the Sheep. People born under this sign are creative, resilient and they persevere. These are traits that will help us build a stronger and more harmonious New Zealand," he said.

"I encourage all New Zealanders to embrace festivities like Chinese New Year. We can all join with the New Zealand's Chinese community to celebrate their heritage and showcase their culture's vibrant color, energy and stories."