Warm welcome at Japan Day cultural event appreciated

Kuni Lewis (right) introduces Trina Northcott to the intricacies of the tea ceremony, at Saturday’s Japan Day in Treble Court.Picture by Liam Clayton

The weekend’s Japan Day cultural event in Gisborne’s city centre was a resounding success, one of the organisers says.

The event was organised by Tairāwhiti Cultural Festival and Events (TCFE), in partnership with Tairāwhiti Multicultural Council (TMC).

“Japan Day went very well with many people’s support and participation,” TCFE chair Akiko Nozue said.

“The event started with an opening whakatau, formally welcoming us as the event organisers and the guest performance group, Narukami Taiko to this land. The whakatau was organised by our mana whenua, Thelma Karaitiana and Arthur Stewart of Ngai Tawhiri.”

Mayor Rehette Stoltz also spoke.

“The performance area featured Japanese taiko drums performances and public workshops, judo demonstrations, and Bon-odori Japanese folkdance, with our MC Walter Walsh The Wiz. The area was always filled by many people for each performance and workshop.

“Cultural booths were also crowded with people who were interested in the cultural activities. We heard many families discussing with children which activity they would like to try next.

“The food area was also popular with a long queue, and the shop staff members worked efficiently to cater for the customers’ needs.

“Māori wardens supported us throughout the event and this created the calm, cheerful and respectful atmosphere, which we were truly grateful for.

“I would say the event was successful in that lots of people helped us to make it a successful event. We would like to send our sincere appreciation to the community for welcoming

our event in such a warm manner.”