Showcasing the Richness of Chinese Culture

On November 6th, 2022 the inaugural New Zealand Chinese Film Week commenced with a grand opening ceremony held at Auckland's iconic SkyCity Theatre. The event brought together esteemed guests, including the Honorary Chairman of the Chinese Film Week, HUANG, Weizhang, President of the New Zealand Chinese Association, Vice Consul WANG, Junchao, Cultural Consul ZHOU, Li, Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown, Director of Auckland China Cultural Center WANG, Jianwen, and Project Manager CAO, Xingyue.

With three distinct sections, the New Zealand Chinese Film Week presented a remarkable lineup of 21 Chinese films, serving as a cinematic bridge that connects and celebrates the enduring friendship between China and New Zealand while showcasing the rich tapestry of Chinese culture. Before the opening ceremony, attendees gathered for a reception, where organizer He Bo shared his vision for the film week, emphasizing its innovative point-to-point screening approach. This strategy aimed to bring outstanding Chinese films, infused with authentic Chinese elements, directly to various communities and campuses across New Zealand, offering a seamless and accessible encounter for the audiences to immerse themselves in the captivating charm of Chinese cinema and the allure of Eastern culture

At 7:30 PM, the artistic program of the New Zealand Chinese Film Week dazzled the audience with captivating performances by both local and international artists, featuring excerpts from Chinese and New Zealand films, soul-stirring Maori chants, and other cultural delights.

During his address at the opening ceremony, HUANG, Weizhang, President of the Chinese Association, underscored the momentous occasion of the New Zealand Chinese Film Week, emphasizing its pivotal role in fostering mutual understanding and deepening the bonds of friendship between the people of China and New Zealand. He conveyed his heartfelt gratitude to the organizers and initiators for their dedication in making this event a resounding success.

Following his heartfelt speech, Vice Consul WANG, Junchao and Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown took to the stage to express their unwavering support for the New Zealand Chinese Film Week and extended their warmest wishes for its success. They accentuated the event's significance in promoting cultural exchange and fostering stronger friendly ties between China and New Zealand.

In conclusion, organizer HE, Bo expressed his heartfelt desire that all guests and attendees felt a sense of belonging at the film screenings, experiencing the mesmerizing power of cinema and forming lasting connections.

As China and New Zealand celebrate 50 years of diplomatic relations, cultural exchanges, and economic partnerships have flourished, permeating every facet of society. In the film industry, both countries have nurtured an ever-evolving collaboration. The New Zealand Chinese Film Week is set to reinforce these cinematic bonds and play a vital role in enhancing cultural understanding for Chinese and New Zealand audiences alike.