Arrival Reception for Consul General Minoya (30 June 2026)
2026/7/2
On 30 June, an arrival reception for Consul General Suguru Minoya was held, welcoming a wide range of distinguished guests, including Auckland Deputy Mayor Desley Simpson, city councillors, the consular and diplomatic corps, representatives from academic, cultural, and business communities, Japan-New Zealand friendship organisations, and members of the Japanese community.
In his address, Consul General Minoya reflected on his deep personal connection to New Zealand, having previously served at the Embassy of Japan in Wellington from 2007 to 2010, and expressed how meaningful it was to return to this country as Consul General. He noted that, as Japan and New Zealand approach the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations next year, their "Strategic Cooperative Partnership" — grounded in shared values of freedom, democracy, and the rule of law — is taking on ever greater importance. He expressed his commitment to making the 75th anniversary not only a celebration of the two countries' shared history, but also the beginning of an even brighter future together.
Consul General Minoya also highlighted the 20 sister-city relationships within the Consulate-General's jurisdiction, noting in particular the 40th anniversary of the sister-city relationship between Auckland and Fukuoka this year. He also extended his congratulations to Auckland FC on winning the league championship this season under the captaincy of Japanese player Hiroki Sakai.
Deputy Consul General Otashiro, who will be departing in July, also addressed the gathering and expressed his heartfelt gratitude to all those present for their warm support throughout his tenure.
Guests enjoyed a selection of Japanese cuisine and dishes prepared by Chef Kitazono, accompanied by Japanese sake, while lively exchanges took place among all those in attendance.
Please click here to read a summary of Consul General Minoya’s remarks.
In his address, Consul General Minoya reflected on his deep personal connection to New Zealand, having previously served at the Embassy of Japan in Wellington from 2007 to 2010, and expressed how meaningful it was to return to this country as Consul General. He noted that, as Japan and New Zealand approach the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations next year, their "Strategic Cooperative Partnership" — grounded in shared values of freedom, democracy, and the rule of law — is taking on ever greater importance. He expressed his commitment to making the 75th anniversary not only a celebration of the two countries' shared history, but also the beginning of an even brighter future together.
Consul General Minoya also highlighted the 20 sister-city relationships within the Consulate-General's jurisdiction, noting in particular the 40th anniversary of the sister-city relationship between Auckland and Fukuoka this year. He also extended his congratulations to Auckland FC on winning the league championship this season under the captaincy of Japanese player Hiroki Sakai.
Deputy Consul General Otashiro, who will be departing in July, also addressed the gathering and expressed his heartfelt gratitude to all those present for their warm support throughout his tenure.
Guests enjoyed a selection of Japanese cuisine and dishes prepared by Chef Kitazono, accompanied by Japanese sake, while lively exchanges took place among all those in attendance.
Please click here to read a summary of Consul General Minoya’s remarks.
