A Cultural Coalesce with New Zealand Visitors

15 students from the Te Kura Kaupapa Maori o Te Whanau Tahi school in New Zealand visited AISG for a cultural exchange experience on Wednesday, October 23. They sat in on classes throughout the day, listening to lectures and experiencing life at AISG. Along with the week-long experience at AISG where they explored the campus and interacted with students and faculty, this cultural exchange trip provided a chance for the New Zealand students to better understand the Chinese culture in Guangzhou. All in all, the overall experience allowed students to get a glimpse of new school systems and societal cultures.

Senior Shaye O., one of the visitors from New Zealand, commented on her thoughts about the entire experience. “We’re here to get to know people and share our cultures. I want to learn what the students do throughout the day, while also exploring the city.” She continued to describe the importance of this trip, including how cultural exchanges only occur once every three years.

Another student from the New Zealand cultural exchange program, senior Te Kowhai K., mentioned that he was excited about the “Guangzhou sightseeing and seeing how AISG works differently from our school.” 

On Wednesday afternoon, the New Zealand visitors performed 6 different songs that represented cultural aspects. The songs included Waiata tira, Whakaeke, Moteatea, Waiata-a-ringa, Poi Haka, and Whakawatea. Each song represented an aspect of the New Zealand culture, and the students danced and sung to the ancient tribal songs.

An audience member, sophomore Vivian C. commented her thoughts on the performance. “You can really tell that they are passionate about their own culture. What really impressed me was how proud they were of where they belonged.”

Another audience member and senior Mulayne L. remarked on the fascinating culture. “I think that it was very cool to see that performance because you wouldn’t normally see that in China. It was really interesting to see the students share their own culture to people here in AISG and others around the world.”

The New Zealand students departed Guangzhou on Friday, October 25 to head to another international school in Beijing.