Consul General MATSUI visits Whangarei (9 September 2025)
2025/9/25
On 9 September, Consul General MATSUI visited Onerahi Primary School in Whangārei during their Culture Day. The program featured vibrant performances, including a sakura-themed solo dance by Ms. Kasper from Tui Tuia and a spirited Soran-bushi (a traditional Japanese folk dance) performed by the whole school, as well as performances reflecting Chinese, Korean, and Māori traditions. In his speech, Consul General MATSUI spoke about two of his personal heroes: Doraemon, from whom he learned the importance of creativity, and his primary school teacher, who taught him the value of respect for others. We extend our respect and gratitude to Ms. Yoshioka, Japanese National Language Adviser at Tui Tuia dispatched from the Japan Foundation, and to everyone who made this wonderful celebration of cross-cultural understanding possible.
Following the school visit, our director paid a courtesy visit to Whangārei Mayor Vince Cocurullo. We exchanged views on Japan–New Zealand exchange programs such as the JET Programme, as well as the activities of local Japanese companies. The Mayor expressed his warm welcome, shared the city’s priorities, and emphasized his commitment to strengthening ties with Japan. Both sides confirmed the importance of cooperation for the safety of Japanese residents, support for local Japanese companies, and the continuation of Japanese language education in the region, and looked forward to future opportunities to meet again.
As Mayor Cocurullo is passionate about promoting local fruits, our director also introduced a yuzu liqueur from Kurashiki, which was warmly received.
Following the school visit, our director paid a courtesy visit to Whangārei Mayor Vince Cocurullo. We exchanged views on Japan–New Zealand exchange programs such as the JET Programme, as well as the activities of local Japanese companies. The Mayor expressed his warm welcome, shared the city’s priorities, and emphasized his commitment to strengthening ties with Japan. Both sides confirmed the importance of cooperation for the safety of Japanese residents, support for local Japanese companies, and the continuation of Japanese language education in the region, and looked forward to future opportunities to meet again.
As Mayor Cocurullo is passionate about promoting local fruits, our director also introduced a yuzu liqueur from Kurashiki, which was warmly received.
