A Vibrant Chinese New Year Celebration at Victoria University of Wellington

To mark the arrival of the Chinese New Year, the Confucius Institute at Victoria University of Wellington, in collaboration with the University library, hosted a lively and inclusive celebration that welcomed students and staff of all backgrounds.

The event was designed to bring people together through the shared experience of traditional Chinese culture, offering activities such as lantern painting, tea ceremonies, and calligraphy.

A Canvas of Culture: Lantern Painting

The venue buzzed with excitement as students and staff gathered around the lantern painting station, a space adorned with red and gold decorations symbolizing prosperity and happiness. Under the guidance of Professor Chen Wen, Deputy Director of the Confucius Institute, and Chinese teacher Zhixiang, participants eagerly picked up brushes and added their personal touch to paper lanterns. Some painted traditional symbols like persimmons for good fortune, plum blossoms for resilience, and bamboo for strength, while others infused their designs with unique, creative expressions. Each lantern became a reflection of its creator’s wishes for the new year. As participants carried their lanterns home, they brought with them a piece of the festival’s warmth and joy.

A Taste of Tradition: The Art of Tea

At the tea ceremony stall, Chinese teacher Wenqian introduced participants to the delicate art of brewing Tieguanyin tea, while Confucius Institute Programme Coordinator Nicole offered samples of white tea and floral teas. As the soothing aroma of tea filled the room, attendees learned not just about different tea varieties, but also about the cultural values associated with tea-drinking—patience, mindfulness, and connection. Many students expressed appreciation for the opportunity to experience a practice that has been cherished in Chinese culture for centuries.

Writing Blessings: Calligraphy and Well-Wishes

The calligraphy workshop attracted a curious crowd as Alice Huang, a Chinese calligrapher from the Confucius Institute’s Discover China program, skillfully brushed Spring Festival couplets and the character “福” (meaning “blessing”) onto red paper. Inspired by her demonstration, participants tried their hand at brush calligraphy, guided by Alice’s encouraging tips. Whether they were writing for themselves or crafting a special gift for a friend, each participant embraced the spirit of the festival through their own artistic expression.

A Celebration for Everyone

The event welcomed students and staff from diverse backgrounds, creating a space where cultural traditions could be shared and appreciated by all. It was more than just a celebration of the Lunar New Year—it was an opportunity to build connections, spark curiosity, and deepen cultural understanding within the university community.

With laughter, creativity, and the warmth of shared experiences, this Chinese New Year event left a lasting impression on all who participated, reminding everyone that the joy of tradition is even greater when celebrated together.

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品味传统文化，共庆中国新年

——新西兰惠灵顿维多利亚大学孔院举办春节庆祝活动

为迎接中国新年的到来，新西兰惠灵顿维多利亚大学孔子学院协助维多利亚大学图书馆精心策划了一场以欢庆春节为主题的活动，为师生们带来了一场丰富多彩的文化嘉年华。活动结合新春特色，涵盖了灯笼彩绘、茶艺表演、书法体验等内容，展现了中国新年传统文化的魅力。

活动现场布置了充满节日氛围的灯笼彩绘区，吸引了众多师生参与。在孔院中方院长陈雯教授和周志香老师的指导下，参与者用墨和颜料在灯笼上绘制图案与祝福语。无论是寓意吉祥的如意柿、梅花、竹子，还是充满创意的个性化设计，每一盏灯笼都展现了独特的节日祝愿。师生们将完成的灯笼带回家，为各自家庭增添浓厚的中国新年气息。

在茶艺展示区，陈文倩老师以优雅娴熟的技艺，向大家展示了铁观音的冲泡方式，孔院秘书Nicole也为师生们准备了白茶和花茶。随着茶汤的流转与香气的弥漫，茶文化的悠久历史和精神内涵也沁入心田。许多同学表示，通过活动更加了解了中国茶文化的深厚底蕴。

活动现场也邀请了孔院“发现中国”项目的华人书法家Alice Huang现场挥毫书写春联和“福”字，为师生送上新春祝福。不少师生在书法家的指导下，尝试用毛笔书写，感受汉字书写的艺术之美。作品完成后，参与者把自己的书法作品带回家作为纪念，或为家人朋友送上亲手书写的祝福。

维多利亚大学的师生们踊跃参与此次活动，对中国文化表现出浓厚兴趣。孔院举办的此次新春庆祝活动不仅为大学校园增添了喜庆祥和的节日气息，更成为师生们深入了解和体验中国传统文化的平台。 （文字/周志香）