Mandarin Language Assistants Archives - Confucius Institute Helping to foster lasting relationships between New Zealand and China Tue, 26 May 2026 00:25:27 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=7.0 https://ci.ac.nz/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/favicon.png Mandarin Language Assistants Archives - Confucius Institute 32 32 210480186 New Zealand Students Showcase Language and Cultural Skills at Chinese Bridge Speech Competition https://ci.ac.nz/new-zealand-students-showcase-language-and-cultural-skills-at-chinese-bridge-speech-competition/ Tue, 26 May 2026 00:23:31 +0000 https://ci.ac.nz/?p=13574 The 2026 Mandarin Language Assistant (MLA) Orientation Week, held during the week commencing 2 February, concluded successfully with our new cohort gaining valuable practical insights into their roles and responsibilities. The programme was designed to equip the MLAs with the knowledge, confidence, and support needed to begin their placements in local schools.
Throughout the week, participants engaged in workshops and discussions covering classroom expectations, cultural exchange, communication strategies, and life in Aotearoa New Zealand. By the final day, many of whom are new to both the country and the experience of working in New Zealand schools, expressed growing confidence about settling into their host communities, connecting with Kiwi families, and stepping into their roles as language teaching assistants.

The Orientation Week not only provided professional preparation, but also fostered a strong sense of community among the MLAs as they begin this shared journey. We look forward to the positive contributions they will make in schools across the wider Auckland region and wish all our MLAs a rewarding and successful year ahead.

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New Zealand Students Showcase Language and Cultural Skills at Chinese Bridge Speech Competition

This year’s Chinese Bridge Speech Competition held on Saturday, 23 May 2026 was a resounding success, with a record number of more than 100 Chinese language learners from Years 3 to 13 registered to take part. The event brought together participants from across the wider Auckland region to celebrate Chinese language learning and showcase students’ linguistic and cultural talents.

Secondary school students delivered eloquent speeches on a range of topics, including Chinese history, traditions, and contemporary issues. The judges were impressed by the depth of understanding and fluency demonstrated by the young speakers, reflecting their dedication to and passion for the Chinese language.

As the event concluded, participants, judges, teachers, and parents expressed their appreciation for the opportunity to be part of such a memorable occasion and acknowledged CI’s ongoing commitment to promoting and supporting Chinese language learning in schools. As Auckland bids farewell to this year’s Chinese Bridge Competition, anticipation is already building for next year, when students will once again have the opportunity to embrace and share the vibrant world of Chinese language and culture.

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]]> 13574 Chinese Beginners Class https://ci.ac.nz/chinese-beginners-class/ Tue, 19 May 2026 23:40:59 +0000 https://ci.ac.nz/?p=13559 The 2026 Mandarin Language Assistant (MLA) Orientation Week, held during the week commencing 2 February, concluded successfully with our new cohort gaining valuable practical insights into their roles and responsibilities. The programme was designed to equip the MLAs with the knowledge, confidence, and support needed to begin their placements in local schools.
Throughout the week, participants engaged in workshops and discussions covering classroom expectations, cultural exchange, communication strategies, and life in Aotearoa New Zealand. By the final day, many of whom are new to both the country and the experience of working in New Zealand schools, expressed growing confidence about settling into their host communities, connecting with Kiwi families, and stepping into their roles as language teaching assistants.

The Orientation Week not only provided professional preparation, but also fostered a strong sense of community among the MLAs as they begin this shared journey. We look forward to the positive contributions they will make in schools across the wider Auckland region and wish all our MLAs a rewarding and successful year ahead.

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Chinese Beginners Class

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]]> 13559 University of Waikato student wins trophy in Chinese Bridge Speech Competition (Tertiary division) https://ci.ac.nz/university-of-waikato-student-wins-trophy-in-chinese-bridge-speech-competition-tertiary-division/ Sun, 10 May 2026 23:07:52 +0000 https://ci.ac.nz/?p=13521 The 2026 Mandarin Language Assistant (MLA) Orientation Week, held during the week commencing 2 February, concluded successfully with our new cohort gaining valuable practical insights into their roles and responsibilities. The programme was designed to equip the MLAs with the knowledge, confidence, and support needed to begin their placements in local schools.
Throughout the week, participants engaged in workshops and discussions covering classroom expectations, cultural exchange, communication strategies, and life in Aotearoa New Zealand. By the final day, many of whom are new to both the country and the experience of working in New Zealand schools, expressed growing confidence about settling into their host communities, connecting with Kiwi families, and stepping into their roles as language teaching assistants.

The Orientation Week not only provided professional preparation, but also fostered a strong sense of community among the MLAs as they begin this shared journey. We look forward to the positive contributions they will make in schools across the wider Auckland region and wish all our MLAs a rewarding and successful year ahead.

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University of Waikato student wins trophy in Chinese Bridge Speech Competition (Tertiary division)
On 9 May, Deputy Director Zhang Qi (Raquel) and Manager Kerryn Levy from the Confucius Institute in Auckland visited the University of Waikato to present Hina Preddey, winner of the Tertiary Division of last year’s Chinese Bridge Speech Competition, with her trophy.

Above, from the left: Dr Maria Galikowski, Senior Lecturer in Chinese and convenor of the International Languages and Cultures Programme, Dr Liang (Kathy) Li, Senior Tutor (讲师) in Chinese, Hina Preddey, student and winner of last year’s Chinese Bridge Speech Competition (Tertiary division) from the University of Waikato, and from the University of Auckland – Qi Zhang (Raquel) Deputy Director and Kerryn Levy, Manager of the Confucius Institute in Auckland

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]]> 13521 International Chinese Language Day https://ci.ac.nz/international-chinese-language-day/ Sun, 19 Apr 2026 02:14:33 +0000 https://ci.ac.nz/?p=13479 The 2026 Mandarin Language Assistant (MLA) Orientation Week, held during the week commencing 2 February, concluded successfully with our new cohort gaining valuable practical insights into their roles and responsibilities. The programme was designed to equip the MLAs with the knowledge, confidence, and support needed to begin their placements in local schools.
Throughout the week, participants engaged in workshops and discussions covering classroom expectations, cultural exchange, communication strategies, and life in Aotearoa New Zealand. By the final day, many of whom are new to both the country and the experience of working in New Zealand schools, expressed growing confidence about settling into their host communities, connecting with Kiwi families, and stepping into their roles as language teaching assistants.

The Orientation Week not only provided professional preparation, but also fostered a strong sense of community among the MLAs as they begin this shared journey. We look forward to the positive contributions they will make in schools across the wider Auckland region and wish all our MLAs a rewarding and successful year ahead.

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International Chinese Language Day
April 20th is International Chinese Language Day. MLAs and teachers from the Confucius Institute in Auckland have joined in early autumn across New Zealand to extend their festive greetings to Chinese learners around the world. From different schools, they unite to spark the colorful dream of learning Chinese. With shared passion in international Chinese language education, our teachers express that the true meaning of language teaching shines through when students greet them in Chinese and develop a genuine love for the language. Let Chinese be a bridge — delivering friendship and warmth across the world.
Happy International Chinese Language Day!

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]]> 13479 Learning, Reflection, and a Day in Puhoi: MLA March Workshop 2026 https://ci.ac.nz/learning-reflection-and-a-day-in-puhoi-mla-workshop-2026/ Thu, 26 Mar 2026 02:25:29 +0000 https://ci.ac.nz/?p=13422 The 2026 Mandarin Language Assistant (MLA) Orientation Week, held during the week commencing 2 February, concluded successfully with our new cohort gaining valuable practical insights into their roles and responsibilities. The programme was designed to equip the MLAs with the knowledge, confidence, and support needed to begin their placements in local schools.
Throughout the week, participants engaged in workshops and discussions covering classroom expectations, cultural exchange, communication strategies, and life in Aotearoa New Zealand. By the final day, many of whom are new to both the country and the experience of working in New Zealand schools, expressed growing confidence about settling into their host communities, connecting with Kiwi families, and stepping into their roles as language teaching assistants.

The Orientation Week not only provided professional preparation, but also fostered a strong sense of community among the MLAs as they begin this shared journey. We look forward to the positive contributions they will make in schools across the wider Auckland region and wish all our MLAs a rewarding and successful year ahead.

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Learning, Reflection, and a Day in Puhoi: MLA March Workshop 2026

14 March – As autumn settled across Auckland, the Confucius Institute hosted its 2026 Mid-March Workshop for Mandarin Language Assistants (MLAs), bringing together volunteers from across the wider Auckland region for three and a half days of learning, reflection, and connection.

The programme combined practical teaching insights with collaborative activities. Sessions focused on classroom experience, with MLAs reflecting on their school placements and sharing ideas for strengthening their teaching. A session led by Tantan Xu (Glendowie College) offered a valuable secondary school perspective, followed by group discussions and presentations that encouraged peer learning and professional growth.

A highlight of the workshop was the outdoor team-building day in Puhoi Village. The group visited the Puhoi Historical Museum to learn about the early Bohemian settlers, enjoyed lunch at the historic Puhoi Pub, and then took part in a kayaking activity along the Puhoi River. The day provided a memorable opportunity to connect, unwind, and experience a unique part of New Zealand together.

The final morning focused on the broader role of language teachers, exploring core values, the emotional dimensions of teaching, and pathways to becoming a registered teacher in New Zealand.

Overall, the workshop was a meaningful and enriching experience, equipping MLAs with new insights, practical strategies, and a renewed sense of purpose.

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]]> 13422 Celebrating the Year of the Horse https://ci.ac.nz/celebrating-the-year-of-the-horse/ Mon, 02 Mar 2026 22:11:37 +0000 https://ci.ac.nz/?p=13372 The 2026 Mandarin Language Assistant (MLA) Orientation Week, held during the week commencing 2 February, concluded successfully with our new cohort gaining valuable practical insights into their roles and responsibilities. The programme was designed to equip the MLAs with the knowledge, confidence, and support needed to begin their placements in local schools.
Throughout the week, participants engaged in workshops and discussions covering classroom expectations, cultural exchange, communication strategies, and life in Aotearoa New Zealand. By the final day, many of whom are new to both the country and the experience of working in New Zealand schools, expressed growing confidence about settling into their host communities, connecting with Kiwi families, and stepping into their roles as language teaching assistants.

The Orientation Week not only provided professional preparation, but also fostered a strong sense of community among the MLAs as they begin this shared journey. We look forward to the positive contributions they will make in schools across the wider Auckland region and wish all our MLAs a rewarding and successful year ahead.

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Celebrating the Year of the Horse

On 26 February, the Confucius Institute in Auckland welcomed colleagues and friends to celebrate Chinese New Year and usher in the Year of the Horse. Guests enjoyed a delicious luncheon, followed by an engaging presentation highlighting the cultural significance, traditions, and symbolism associated with this important festival and the zodiac year ahead.
Attendees were then invited to participate in a series of interactive demonstrations, including traditional Chinese paper-cutting, calligraphy, nail art, and the art of the tea ceremony. These hands-on activities offered guests a deeper appreciation of Chinese cultural heritage and festive customs.
The celebration concluded with a vibrant Hanfu fashion show, featuring traditional attire elegantly modelled by our Mandarin Language Assistants, bringing colour, history, and artistry to a joyful lunchtime celebration of cultural exchange.

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]]> 13372 Welcoming Our 2026 Mandarin Language Assistants https://ci.ac.nz/welcoming-our-2026-mandarin-language-assistants/ Mon, 02 Mar 2026 21:56:17 +0000 https://ci.ac.nz/?p=13357 The 2026 Mandarin Language Assistant (MLA) Orientation Week, held during the week commencing 2 February, concluded successfully with our new cohort gaining valuable practical insights into their roles and responsibilities. The programme was designed to equip the MLAs with the knowledge, confidence, and support needed to begin their placements in local schools.
Throughout the week, participants engaged in workshops and discussions covering classroom expectations, cultural exchange, communication strategies, and life in Aotearoa New Zealand. By the final day, many of whom are new to both the country and the experience of working in New Zealand schools, expressed growing confidence about settling into their host communities, connecting with Kiwi families, and stepping into their roles as language teaching assistants.

The Orientation Week not only provided professional preparation, but also fostered a strong sense of community among the MLAs as they begin this shared journey. We look forward to the positive contributions they will make in schools across the wider Auckland region and wish all our MLAs a rewarding and successful year ahead.

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Welcoming Our 2026 Mandarin Language Assistants

The 2026 Mandarin Language Assistant (MLA) Orientation Week, held during the week commencing 2 February, concluded successfully with our new cohort gaining valuable practical insights into their roles and responsibilities. The programme was designed to equip the MLAs with the knowledge, confidence, and support needed to begin their placements in local schools.
Throughout the week, participants engaged in workshops and discussions covering classroom expectations, cultural exchange, communication strategies, and life in Aotearoa New Zealand. By the final day, many of whom are new to both the country and the experience of working in New Zealand schools, expressed growing confidence about settling into their host communities, connecting with Kiwi families, and stepping into their roles as language teaching assistants.
The Orientation Week not only provided professional preparation, but also fostered a strong sense of community among the MLAs as they begin this shared journey. We look forward to the positive contributions they will make in schools across the wider Auckland region and wish all our MLAs a rewarding and successful year ahead.

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]]> 13357 2025 MLA Farewell Ceremony and Celebration https://ci.ac.nz/2025-mla-farewell-ceremony-and-celebration/ Wed, 03 Dec 2025 01:14:45 +0000 https://ci.ac.nz/?p=13232 The post 2025 MLA Farewell Ceremony and Celebration appeared first on Confucius Institute.

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2025 MLA Farewell Ceremony and Celebration

On 29 November, the Confucius Institute in Auckland hosted the 2025 Farewell Ceremony for its Mandarin Language Assistants (MLA) cohort. Held at the Sir Owen G Glenn Building, the event celebrated the achievements of 23 language assistants who contributed to Chinese language and cultural education in schools across the wider Auckland region.
 
 Dr Xuelin Zhou, Director of CI in Auckland, opened the ceremony, joined by guest speakers including Vice Consul-General Mr Wang Junchao of the Consul General of the People’s Republic of China, Mr Bin Liu, CEO of the Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (New Zealand) Limited, CI Advisory Board Members Emeritus Professor Paul Clark and Mr Danny Chan, and Ms Maree Bathurst, Principal of Albany Primary School. They commended the MLAs’ dedication and their role in strengthening ties between New Zealand and China.
 
Cultural performances by the Westlake Diabolo Club, MLA dancer from Rosehill College, dancers from Glendowie Primary School, and a Fashion Parade and song by Onerahi Primary students highlighted the vibrancy of Chinese traditions. Certificates of completion and recognition were awarded to the Language Assistants, and awards were presented to the winners of our inaugural MLAs’ Teaching Skills competition.
  
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.

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