Dr. Xuelin Zhou, Director of CI in Auckland, opened the ceremony, joined by guest speakers including CI advisory board member Danny Chan, Vice Consul General Wang Junchao of the People’s Republic of China, and Kristie Thomas, Principal of ACG Strathallan Primary School. They commended the MLAs’ dedication and their role in strengthening ties between New Zealand and China.

Cultural performances by MLA dancers and Onerahi Primary students highlighted the vibrancy of Chinese traditions. Certificates of completion and recognition were awarded to the language assistants, while a special Diamond Award honoured Chinese teacher Yuanyuan Wang for her contributions to adult learning courses.

In his closing address, Dr. Zhou reflected on the 20th anniversary of this global MLA programme. He encouraged the aspiring Chinese language teachers to cherish their experiences, emphasising the lasting impact of their work.

The event concluded with a heartfelt choir performance, celebrating the MLAs’ accomplishments and the connections they built with schools, teachers, learners, and communities during their ten-month journey.