In this issue

Dated: 2 March 2011

• From the National Office

Conference news:

Join us in Masterton at the Sister City Conference to take a constructive look at Sister City relationships to ensure they are Connected, Relevant and Rewarding in current and future economic conditions. Join us in Inter-active, case-study based workshops which will pool future-focused ideas around Tourism,  Trade,  Education and Exchanges,  and Sport, Culture and Events

Get organised and save, with our incentive for early registration: Earlybird rate is $575 + GST by 28 March; after 28 March the fee jumps to $650 + GST
Contact the conference organisers for the registration pack here  

From the National Office

This month's delayed newsletter is a tribute to our friends in Christchurch and their international colleagues. We lead  with the heartbreaking news of the loss of life due to the Christchurch Earthquake and our grief for those Japanese, Chinese, and US nationals (among others)  who are still missing. We know that this a most distressing time for our friends on the other side of the world and we value our special relationships.

Brian Martin - Chair of the Japan/NZ Business Council has put it very well for us

"As New Zealand has experienced its darkest days, the rays of brightness shine through the black clouds with the action of PEOPLE. People from all over the world  have come to Christchurch, New Zealand, to assist and help support the rescue and recovery. This is so appreciated and valued. But we are entering a period,  when HOPE will begin to dim, for the recovery of the  people who are still reported missing. We have seen wonderful acts of leadership, from the Prime Minister, Christchurch Mayor, civil defence, medical services, police, fire service, St John's, military, social welfare, volunteers, 10,000 student army, all working together. Truly “Uniqueness in Harmony”
 
Paul Rothville from China-Edge says:

"The Christchurch earthquake has deeply affected the Kiwi community in China. Aware of my Sister Cities NZ connections, many Kiwis and Chinese here have asked me to pass on their thoughts and best wishes to Christchurch city at this difficult time, and to let you know we are with you!! A lot of us received the news just as we were preparing for our day and from that moment on we have all been struggling to come to terms with what has happened in our country, and in our beautiful city of Christchurch. I was on my way to a meeting with a regional airline to promote NZ wine when I got a text about what had happened – it is at a moment like that when you feel so far from home, and as a Kiwi you just want to do something to help out.

We also want Christchurch to know that if there is anything we can do from our base here in China then please let us know. We all want to do our country and Christchurch a service, and contribute in whatever way we can to the recovery efforts, and eventual rebuilding of the city. Our hearts are with you."

and finally from the New Zealand Japan Society:

NZJS would like to offer any assistance it can to victims and their families who have been affected by this terrible disaster. Volunteers and associates of our society are offering the below support:

1) Accommodation in Auckland
2) Interpreting/translation
3) Transportation
4) Attending to victims transferred to Auckland Hospital (including emotional support)

Please do not hesitate to contact us if there is anything we can do for you.

Contact:KUMIKO 021-451-423, STEPHEN 021-276-7687
Email: info@nzjapan.net or culture@nzjapan.net

Any NZJS members or anyone who has seen this page and wishes to help, please contact them using the above contact details.

Thank you.