Residents of North Shore City in the Auckland region were amazed at the cultural diversity that exists within their own communities at a get together last fortnight.
More than 100 people attended the North Shore International Connections Civic Reception, including consulate representatives from Australia, Austria, Bangladesh, Belgium, China, Italy, Japan, Korea, Malta, Philippines, Samoa, Thailand and UK.
Labour MP Darien Fenton was also present, along with members of business associations, educational institutes, sports bodies and defence personnel.
Mayor Andrew William paid tributes to the people of the City for their spirit of goodwill and oneness and hoped that the multi-ethnic fabric would continue to shine even after his City loses its identity to the Auckland Super City later this year.
“This will be the last official international connections gathering for North Shore City. Events like this provide us with the opportunity to go beyond our borders to remember our similarities, while sharing our differences,” he said.
Greeting the guests in 18 languages, Mr Williams said the City boasted of a vibrant society that represented communities from all over the world.
“North Shore is truly an international city. About 40% of our residents were born overseas, compared to the national average of 22%,” he said.
He praised the business community for its fortitude and success.
He said North Shore City had a reputation for its strength in business, sports, education and economic development, and has proved its resilience in recent years.
“Institutions such as Enterprise North Shore ensure we continue to be competitive in the current economic environment. Our business leaders continue to stimulate the economy and bring business to the North Shore,” Mr Williams said.
A number of groups highlighted their cultural heritage.
Among them were three melodic and harmonious songs, rendered by the Shalom Ladies Choir, which skilfully switched between English, Korean and Maori.
Photo : Cultural diversity pronounced- Shalom Ladies Choir in concert
