Yoshiji Narita, New Zealand representative for Daikoku Restaurant Group, receives the Consul General’s Commendation (20 December 2022)

On 20 December Consul General Hamada awarded Yoshiji Narita the Consul General’s Commendation at the Consul General’s Residence. The Consul General’s Commendations are awarded to those who have made remarkable achievements in relation to Japan.
 
Mr Narita has played a key role in organising Japan Day, one of the largest Japanese cultural festivals in New Zealand, leading the Japan Day Committee as chairperson for many years. Mr Narita has also contributed to the development of the Japanese community as a previous president of the Japanese Society of Auckland. In recognition of his dedication to promoting Japanese food through the activities of his restaurant group, Japan’s Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries appointed Mr Narita as 'Japanese Cuisine Goodwill Ambassador' in January 2022.
 
At the commendation ceremony Consul General Hamada noted Mr Narita’s achievements and presented him with the certificate of commendation. Mr Kenji Azuma, ex-chairperson of Japan Day Committee, spoke of Mr Narita’s efforts and commitment to strengthening the positive relationship between Japan and New Zealand for many years, focusing on his past contributions to Japan Day. Mr Narita expressed his enthusiasm for the further development of Japan Day and his desire to continue contributing to further mutual understanding and friendship between Japan and New Zealand.
 
We offer our deepest thanks to Mr Narita for all of his efforts and achievements and look forward to his continued success.