Japanese Language Classes 2026

Learn how to speak, write, and communicate in Japanese in a friendly group setting

Every year, NZJS offers a range of in-person Japanese language classes for adults wanting to learn or improve their Japanese skills.

In 2026 we offer the following levels: beginner, pre-intermediate, intermediate, upper intermediate, and upper intermediate II.

  • Classes start at the beginning of each calendar year and follow the school terms for the year. 
  • Our teachers are native Japanese language speakers with years of experience teaching Japanese to adult students.

If you have learned Japanese before, you may be able to start at a higher level. Please contact us to check which level may suit you best, and if we have spaces available.

If you are looking for general conversation classes, we can point you to classes run by other community groups.

2026 Terms:

  • Term 1: 10 February to 2 April (8 weeks)
  • Term 2: 21 April to 2 July (11 weeks)
  • Term 3: 21 July to 24 September (10 weeks)
  • Term 4: 13 October to 3 December (8 weeks)

If you have any questions, please contact: info@nzjapan.net

Overview

  • Small class sizes: 4 – 10 students max
  • Students must be over 17 years of age
  • One two-hour class per week, with additional homework
  • Classes run in the evenings from 6:30 to 8:30 pm (Mon-Thurs)
  • Class terms follow the NZ school terms, between 8-10 weeks per term
  • Fees must be paid in advance each term, and are non-refundable after payment
  • Fees are $350 (10-week term) + one-off annual NZJS membership fee of $32
  • Students must buy their own textbooks to use in class (please check in advance)
  • Classes are usually held at the Ellen Melville Centre in Freyberg Square, or across central Auckland

Course Description

Beginners

Perfect for people who have not studied Japanese before. However, we can only take dedicated students who are focused on studying to pass JLPT Level 5, or who want to live and work in Japan in the near future.

Learning Programme: This year we will offer “Irodori: Japanese for Life in Japan” created by the Japanese Government.

The starter programme is here.

Held on: Thursday from 6:30-8:30 pm

Pre-Intermediate

For people who have already studied Japanese for up to a year, and can easily recognise Hiragana, Katakana and some Kanji. 

Learning Programme: This year we will offer “Irodori: Japanese for Life in Japan” created by the Japanese Government.

The elementary programme is here. 

Held on: Wednesday from 6:30-8:30 pm

Intermediate

For people who have completed the previous classes, or have studied Japanese for two years.

Textbook: Genki 2

Students must supply their own textbook.

Held on: Tuesday from 6:30 – 8:30 pm

 

Upper Intermediate

For people who have completed the Intermediate classes, or have studied Japanese for two or more years.

Textbook: Genki 2

Students must supply their own textbook.

Held on: Thursday from 6:30-8:30 pm

Upper Intermediate II

For people who have completed the previous classes, or have studied Japanese for three years.

Course material: TBA

Held on: Wednesday from 6:30- 8:30 pm

Class Fees:

Class fees are $350 per 10 week term, with a one-off annual membership fee of $32 when you first join.

Please note:

Payment is required in full at the start of the term. We do not issue refunds.
Students must provide their own textbooks.

Location:

Most lessons are held at the Ellen Melville Centre, on the corner of High Street and Freyberg Place in central Auckland.

We will advise of any venue changes as early as possible.
If you have any queries about our classes or need help finding private Japanese lessons, please contact: info@nzjapan.net