Talking in tongues in Wellington

Wellington is planning a colourful, summer-style celebration this week, despite being in the depths of winter.

International Languages Week opens this Sunday, with prizes and encouragement for all those who can manage a few words in languages other than their own or can show they are open to learning a little bit of another language.

There will be a mock guillotine execution for those who refuse to get their tongues around a different dialect.

Join a multicultural crowd in Wellington Civic Square from noon.

In Auckland, spend a few hours learning the language of your choice, from Chinese to German, Japanese or Spanish.

As part of International Languages Week, the Unitec School of Languages at Carrington Rd, Mt Albert, is open to those who want to learn a little on either July 16 or 18.

Contact: In Wellington, Jenny MacLean (04) 566 1089 extn 730, email macleanj@shc.lower-hutt.school.nz

In Auckland, Natalie Rosa (09) 815 4321; email nrosa@unitec.ac.nz

International Languages Week