Delegation From Japanese Sister City Kumagaya Enjoying Invercargill Hospitality

Invercargill is currently hosting a delegation from its Japanese sister city, Kumagaya, to commemorate the 30th anniversary of their sister city relationship. The delegation, which included the Mayor of Kumagaya, Tetsuya Kobayashi, and members of the Kumagaya City Council, was warmly welcomed by Invercargill Mayor Nobby Clark.

The delegation was given tours of various city landmarks, including the City Streets development and Invercargill Central mall. Mayor Clark said, “We’ve made a lot of changes in Invercargill in 30 years and we’re keen to have them see what we’ve been up to since their last visit.”

As part of their visit, the delegation also took part in a signing ceremony at the Victoria room in the Civic Theatre, toured Queens Park, Rugby Park, Tiwai, and Stadium Southland, and were hosted at a formal dinner at Te Rau Aroha marae in Bluff.

Mayor Clark also discussed plans for Project 1225 with the delegation and expressed his hope that they would return to see its completion in the future.

“It was an excellent way to start the year by re-establishing ties, making new friends, and getting the opportunity to showcase the city,” said Mayor Clark.