A cultural showcase held on the Jordan Field at Memorial Park saw over 200 people participate in Turban Day by donning traditional headwear.

“We’re showing the local people why we wear the turban,” event organiser Puran Singh said.

The Sikh turban, known as the Dastar or Dumalla, symbolises the embodiment of Sikh teachings, love for the Guru and commitment to doing good deeds.

Puran said the Sikh community appreciates the Tauranga community’s embrace of the Turban.

“Indian, Pakistani, Bangladeshi, Sri, Lankan, European, anyone.”

After reading about Turban Day earlier in the week, Joe Scott of Tauranga decided to try on one himself.

Joe Scott joined in the cultural celebration at Jordan Memorial Park. Photo/ Rosalie Liddle Crawford.

“I’m not into religion. I’m into vintage cars. But I read about Turban Day, so I came down. Now I’m wearing a turban,” he said.

Former president of Multicultural Tauranga Ewa Fenn said the weather was perfect for the event at the park, and planned to wear her turban home.

Ewa Fenn wearing a yellow turban. Photo/Rosalie LIddle Crawford.

"I think the Indian culture is becoming more embedded in our culture, and is being accepted and becoming part of Tauranga," said Fenn. "I think that's fantastic."

The Sikh celebration by the community would allow the residents of Tauranga to experience and learn about different religions and cultures, said Labour List MP Jan Tinetti.

“We’ve got a growing multicultural community here in Tauranga, and it’s so exciting to see so many participating,” Tinetti said.

Labour List MP Jan Tinetti at Turban Day. Photo/Rosalie Liddle Crawford.

Tinetti wore a bright yellow turban and saw first-hand how the three-metre-long fabric wound onto her head.

“I was just amazed about that, and it only took, I think it was probably about a minute,” Tinetti said.

Along with tying the Turban, a generous range of free food was offered at Jordan Field at Memorial Park.

“One was a paneer, and the other a spiced rice. It was really lovely,” Tinetti said.

Turban Day was supported by Tauranga City Council, Multicultural Tauranga, and Welcoming Communities.

Puran Singh speaking at the Turban Day gathering on Jordan Field at Memorial Park. Photo / Rosalie Liddle Crawford.