Head Chef of Gion Japanese Restaurant Yoshiaki Kugue receives the Consul General’s Commendation (14 April 2025)

2025/4/17
On April 14th, Mr Yoshiaki Kugue, owner chef of the Japanese restaurant “Gion”, was presented the Consul General’s Commendation at the official residence of the Consul General, and celebrated for his award with his family, staff and other guests.

The Consul General’s Commendation is presented to those who have made outstanding achievements in relation to Japan that are worthy of special recognition and praise. After training in restaurants in Kyoto, Mr Kugue has been demonstrating sashimi, and nigiri sushi, etc. in Auckland. Since 2006, he has been promoting Japanese food and sake with special emphasis on seasonal ingredients and in the Kyoto style for about 20 years with his restaurant “Gion” in Parnell.

The Consulate-General will continue to actively work for mutual understanding and friendship through Japanese culture, including Japanese food and sake.

Kugue-san (or Akira-san as stage name), congratulations on your award!

Please follow this link to see the Consul General’s speech.
 
Awarding the commendation Consul General MATSUI Mr Yoshiaki Kugue
 
Mr Hisashi Kugue Mr Yoshiaki Kugue and his family