The Lantern Festival has returned to Christchurch once again.

The Christchurch Lantern Festival makes a return to the city for its tenth year.

Organisers expect 30,000 to 40,000 people at this year's Christchurch Lantern festival in North Hagley Park, which opens on Saturday, as part of Chinese New Year celebrations.

This year marks the festival's first time in the North Hagley Park site, and was brought to town by the Christchurch City Council in partnership with the Asia New Zealand Foundation.

JOHN KIRK-ANDERSON/FAIRFAX NZ Ryan Ma, 5, at the soft launch of the Lantern Festival in Hagley Park.

Asia New Zealand Foundation director Jennifer King said it was one of the "prettiest" festivals in the world.

"This particular setting is perfect for the Lantern Festival."

King said the New Zealand festival was far more traditional than those held in China, where lanterns were "cartoonish".

"We try to find scenes that represent traditional China."

Christchurch City Council head of events Richard Attwood said the event reflected Christchurch's relationships with its sister cities.

"It is one of our most favoured events."

"It provides a chance for the Chinese community to express their culture to residents."

Attwood encouraged event-goers to plan their transport to and from the venue.

The two-day festival from Saturday to Sunday features lanterns that were brought over from Zigong in China.

Up to 70 stall-holders and local and Chinese performers will showcase their skills, history and culture over the weekend.