NZJS Council Members

The daughter of a Japanese mother and a Kiwi father who were co-founders of the
Japan Society of Hawke’s Bay, Sonia grew up understanding the importance of
sharing Japanese culture and cuisine with the world. She deeply respects for the
history of NZJS and wants current and future generations of New Zealanders to have
the opportunity to learn about Japanese culture. She would like to see a dedicated
‘Japanese Home’ created in Auckland as a central venue for Japanese arts, culture,
and connection.

A writer and communications professional, Sonia joined the Council as Secretary in
2020 and was appointed President in 2021.

With twin passions of Japanese translation and chanoyu (the Way of Tea), Eleanor
has served on the NZJS Council for many years. Eleanor’s knowledge and expertise
in the beauty of Tea Ceremony is widely respected in the Japanese community, and
she coordinates a dedicated group of practitioners for monthly Aoteakai tea
ceremony group practice.

A freelance Japanese translator, Eleanor’s work includes The Wisdom of Tea: Life
Lessons from the Japanese Tea Ceremony by Noriko Morishita.

A dedicated and experienced Taiko drummer, Jonathan has served as the Haere Mai
Taiko representative on the Council for many years. He has learned from some of
Japan’s most respected teachers and composers and continues to develop his craft
alongside his family, who are also members of the group.

An education professional and a longstanding member of the Aoteakai Tea
Ceremony group, Yuki provides another native Japanese voice to the Council.
Through her work she actively fosters a love of Japanese language and culture with
people.

Victoria has had a lifelong love of Japanese culture and food, with a particular focus
on anime and manga. She has a Japanese grandmother, and, having visited Japan
only once, is determined to spend more time there again. She has served as
Secretary since 2021.