BACKThis March, Rangitoto College hosted 280 third-year junior high school students from Zushi Kaisei Junior High School, marking the 20th anniversary of friendship and cultural exchange between our two schools. We welcomed the students from Zushi, a city in Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan, who came to Rangitoto College to experience life with host families and the school day with local Kiwi students.
The day began with a traditional pōwhiri, where the Japanese students were warmly greeted by their Kiwi hosts. The excitement was palpable as Rangitoto College’s Year 9 and Year 10 students paired up with their new friends, embarking on a day filled with cultural discovery and shared experiences.
Activities were plentiful and included rapid fire group discussions, the “Maze Game,” the traditional Māori arts of tītītorea and rākau, alongside the intricate craft of origami. Students enthusiastically exchanged skills and knowledge and helped each other in the games and activities. As part of this cultural exchange, the Rangitoto College buddies also invited their new Japanese friends to join them in class for several periods, offering a glimpse into the learning experience at our school.
The end of the day arrived with a spectacular showcase of student-led performances. The Japanese students dazzled the audience with three synchronised wotagei dances, set to catchy tunes from beloved pop icons like Hatsune Miku and YOASOBI. The air shimmered with pink and golden glow sticks, illuminating the evening and generating thunderous applause. A team of kendama performers showcased their creative and skilful balancing tricks with a wooden cup and stick.
In response, Rangitoto’s Te Ao Haka class presented their own dance performances, celebrating New Zealand’s rich cultural heritage.
It was time for the final words for the day, with both Zushi Kaisei Junior High School students and teachers making their final speeches of farewell and gratitude. Many group photos were taken, and certificates of participation were handed out to all Japanese students who made this impressive journey. It is clear that friendships have blossomed from this exchange. Here’s to many more years of collaboration with Zushi Kaisei Junior High School!
