SunLive: Chinese language week hits Tauranga

New Zealand Chinese Language Week 2018 marks the fourth year of the Kiwi-led initiative.

This week is to encourage more New Zealanders to engage with Chinese language and culture, and better understand the opportunities and benefits it can bring.

Ahead of New Zealand Chinese Year of Tourism in 2019, the 2018 New Zealand Chinese Language Week has a tourism theme.

There is a strong interest in NZCLW in the Bay with activities happening at Tauranga Library and workshops and cultural activities happening in a number of schools across the region.

“There are a number of activities happening at a number of schools including Chinese music, dance and food workshops happening at Otumoetai Intermediate, Oropi School, Matua Primary and Brookfield Primary,” says Rebecca Needham from the Confucius Institute at Victoria University.

“The funding for these workshops has been provided by Discover China! Discover China! workshops are free, interactive Chinese cultural events for schools or community groups, taught by a team of skilled instructors and managed by the Confucius Institute at Victoria University.”

“There are workshops on Chinese Calligraphy and Painting, Chinese Martial Arts, Chinese Cuisine and Tea Ceremony, and Chinese Folk Dance, and they are often run together as a Discover China! day.”

Tauranga are holding a number of these events on Saturday September 29, including Chinese Calligraphy, Chinese Folk Dance Group and Chinese Cut Paper Art.