On September 21, the Second Wellington Chinese Students’ Mid-Autumn Festival Concert was held successfully at Victoria University of Wellington (VUW). Counselor Tang Jun, who is responsible for educational, scientific and cultural affairs at the Chinese Embassy, and Ms Kirsty McClure, Director of Student Experience and Wellbeing at VUW delivered remarks. Mr Sam Mackay, Acting Director of VUW International Office, Mr Xu Tong, Director of the China Cultural Centre in Wellington, more than 300 Chinese students, and guests from both China and New Zealand joined the 2025 Mid-Autumn Festival celebration.

Counselor Tang Jun extended festive greetings to all Chinese students and expressed sincere appreciation to VUW for its support of the event. She stressed that this year marks the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. Many students had watched the commemoration ceremony and the grand military parade on 3rd September, feeling proud of and inspired by their motherland. On this Mid-Autumn Festival, a time of family reunion, the motherland cares deeply for overseas Chinese students. She encouraged everyone to study diligently and strive for achievements, abide by local laws and university regulations, acting as young ambassadors of China–New Zealand friendship, and pay close attention to their safety and wellbeing. She added that the Chinese Embassy in New Zealand will continue to work closely with New Zealand universities to promote people-to-people exchanges, contribute to the sound and steady growth of bilateral relations, and provide strong support for students to pursue their studies abroad in a safe, healthy, and successful manner.

McClure noted that she was delighted to celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival with Chinese students, an occasion for family, community, reflection, and gratitude, and one that embodies the spirit of cultural exchange and harmony. She added that the university is committed to creating a welcoming environment where all students feel at home, and where they are celebrated and supported — academically, socially, and culturally.

At the concert, young musicians showcased the unique charm of Chinese culture through traditional instruments, vocal performances, and piano pieces. The program featured not only classic Chinese works such as Jasmine Flower and Give Me a Rose, but also patriotic compositions like Along the Songhua River, Ballad of the Yellow River, and I Am Here. Mid-Autumn themed songs, including The Moon Over the River on A Spring Night, Wishing We Last Forever, and The Moon Song, were also performed. The evening culminated in a rousing chorus of I Love You, China, which drew continuous applause from the audience. During the intermission, students organized a lively quiz that participants eagerly joined, adding to the vibrant atmosphere.