This year marks a significant milestone as Tauranga and Yantai celebrate 40 years of sister-city partnership—a relationship built on mutual respect, collaboration and enduring friendship.
Creative Bay of Plenty was honoured to support this important occasion by sending our Ngā Toi Māori Navigator, Arohanoa Mathews, as part of the official Tauranga delegation. Alongside leaders from business, education and local government, the visit focused on strengthening relationships, deepening cultural understanding and exploring future opportunities for creative exchange.
Situated on the coast of Shandong Province, Yantai is a vibrant port city with a rich maritime history. Like Tauranga Moana, Yantai’s identity is deeply connected to the moana, with thriving coastal industries, a world-renowned harbour, agriculture, horticulture and a strong connection between people and place. These shared values create a natural foundation for continued partnership.
A special highlight of the delegation was the presentation of a taonga gifted to the Mayor of Yantai in recognition of this 40-year anniversary. Beautifully carved by Pete Smith (Ngāti Hangarau), the contemporary mahe (punga) was crafted from a toka gathered from the shores of Mauao. Symbolising safe harbour, navigation, whakapapa and the enduring ebb and flow of relationships, the taonga reflects the deep cultural identity of Tauranga Moana and the significance of this international friendship.
The delegation was also privileged to travel alongside students from Tauranga Intermediate School, whose performances of waiata, kapa haka and cultural presentations created meaningful opportunities for connection. Watching our rangatahi proudly share Māori culture while building friendships with students in Yantai was a powerful reminder that cultural exchange is ultimately about people, relationships and future generations.
For Creative Bay of Plenty, this visit reinforces the value of arts and culture as a bridge between communities. We look forward to building on the relationships established with Yantai Cultural Centre and other creative partners, creating opportunities for artists, practitioners and creative communities to connect, collaborate and learn from one another in the years ahead.
Ngā mihi nui to everyone who contributed to making this milestone delegation such a meaningful celebration of partnership, culture and shared futures.
