Sister district visit marks end of two year hiatus

The sister district relationship with Changping District was celebrated with a face to face visit this week, ending a two-year hiatus due to COVID-19.

The relationship was developed in 2015 and further developed in 2017, with a historical and cultural relationship with Honghu in Hubei Provence, marking the significance of the connection to Rewi Alley.

It has been 100 years since his birth was celebrated in Honghu; the unveiling of a statue in his honour on the banks of the Yangtse River and subsequently in Chamberlain Park Amberley with the Bridge of Friendship.

There is a new consulate now residing in Christchurch, Madam Hu, who reached out to Hurunui District to reconnect to celebrate Alley’s birth.

There is a plan to host an event in collaboration with Christchurch city, and Springfield in Selwyn district.

“There is a great cultural significance through the life and works of Rewi Alley, particularly the association with Amberley School. It was a pleasure to all spend time together this week,” said Mayor Marie Black.

Pictured, left to right: Consulate General He Ying, Mayor Marie Black, Michelle MacWilliam of the New Zealand China Friendship Society, and Cr Pauline White.