News
- Invercargill welcomed a delegation from Kumagaya, continuing a 31-year sister city relationship.
- The visitors explored local attractions, businesses, and cultural sites across Invercargill and Bluff.
- Officials highlighted the importance of exchanges in strengthening ties and fostering mutual benefits.
Invercargill has once again welcomed a delegation from its Japanese sister city, Kumagaya, marking another milestone in a 31-year-long relationship.
The Invercargill-Kumagaya sister city connection was formalised in 1993 and has since led to student exchanges, reciprocal official visits, and the establishment of the Kumagaya Friendship Association. Located about 60km from central Tokyo, Kumagaya is an agricultural town known for its cherry blossoms, open landscapes, and passion for rugby.
A group of five city councillors from Kumagaya visited Invercargill and Bluff last week, touring various attractions and businesses. Their itinerary included stops at Queens Park, Te Moutere Tuatara Island, Tiwai Point, Transport World, The Seriously Good Chocolate Company, Bluff Distillery, Space Ops, Ocean Beach, and a local dairy farm.
The delegation also attended a formal dinner and a kapa haka performance at Murihiku Marae, experiencing Southland’s unique hospitality.
Invercargill City Council Manager Governance and Legal Michael Morris expressed appreciation for the local businesses and organisations that hosted the visitors. “We are very grateful to the businesses and organisations in Southland who shared their time and experiences with our guests, helping to make their stay here truly valuable,” he said.
He also emphasised the significance of such visits, stating, “These visits strengthen our sister city connection and bring us tangible benefits, such as sporting, school and working holiday exchanges.”
Invercargill Mayor Nobby Clark was pleased to showcase the city’s progress and innovation. “We have a lot to offer in our corner of the country, whether it’s our award-winning parks, the revitalised city centre, or world-leading businesses creating products that go all over the globe.”
The delegation spent four days in Invercargill before returning to Japan on Thursday.