Grand Celebration Day

Join in a grand celebration day as we welcome a special delegation from Otaru featuring the traditional cultures of Japan and New Zealand. Festivities include sushi demos and tastings from a Japanese chef, trying Tītī − a Southern delicacy, Ainu Kirigami activities, Shodo calligraphy, Harakeke weaving activities, Seishinkan Bujutsu and more!

Schedule of events:

Ainu Kirigami:
Create your own colourful Ainu patterned kirigami − the traditional art of cutting folded paper. This activity has come all the way from the Otaru Museum especially for the Otago community.
10.30am and 2pm, Atrium Level 1

Grand welcome:
Otago Museum hosts the Otaru Sister City Delegation: Celebrating 30 years of our sister city relationship, we warmly welcome delegates from Otaru to the Otago Museum.
11am, Atrium Level 1

Power and Grace - Seishinkan Bujutsu:
A live performance of koryu martial arts by Dunedin Seishinkan Society members. Steeped in 400 years of ancient Japanese tradition, Seishinkan Bujutsu combines strength and discipline.
12pm, Atrium Level 1

Shodo Calligraphy:
The Japanese art of writing beautifully, each stroke following a specific path and order. See writing become art in this live demo of Japanese calligraphy.
1pm, Atrium Level 1

Japanese Master Sushi Chef:
Sushi chefs train for years to perfect the skills required for correct sushi preparation and presentation. Experience the speed and skill of Otaru's visiting specialist sushi chef.
1.30pm, Atrium Level 1

A Taste of Tītī Traditions:
Tītī, also known as Sooty Shearwater or Muttonbird, has remained a traditional Māori food source for hundreds of years. Taste Tītī for yourself with Kāi Tahu restaurateur Ron Bull, as he explains the birds' ecology and significance to Kāi Tahu.
2.30pm, Atrium Level 1

Harakeke Weaving:
Wind your fingers around flax weaving to create fish, balancing games and friendship bands. Discover the basics of the traditional art of Te Whare Pora, Māori weaving.
3.30pm, Atrium Level 1

Plus face painting, balloons and more!

Event listed by Otago Museum

View their other events or contact promoter