It has now been one year since I assumed my post as Consul-General of Japan in Auckland. During this time I have been very impressed by the wide range of activities undertaken by the New Zealand Japan Society of Auckland to further understanding of Japanese culture in New Zealand. I myself have taken part in a number of the Society’s events such as the Haiku and Shodo contest and the Earthquake Memorial Event (Wings of Hope).
Promoting Japanese culture is one of the important roles that my office (the Consulate-General of Japan) performs. I feel that strengthening the mutual relationship between Japan and New Zealand through introducing Japanese culture to the people of Auckland, one third of New Zealand’s population, has great significance.
I believe that through close collaboration we are able to work efficiently to reach a wide audience. My office actively supports the NZJS to further promote and establish Japanese culture in Auckland’s world-class multi-cultural landscape.
I look forward to the NZJS’s further developments and successes.
Yoshitaka Yokoyama
Consul-General of Japan in Auckland