In brief
On Wednesday, November 5, the 2026 "Modern China Through My Eyes" short video competition concluded in Auckland, New Zealand, with 130 students from 24 schools submitting 45 videos. Chinese Consul General *Chen Shijie* highlighted the event’s role in promoting Chinese language learning and cultural understanding, while academics praised the students’ creativity and enthusiasm. The ceremony featured Chinese dance, song and speeches, underscoring the competition’s growing influence over three consecutive years.
On Wednesday, November 5, the 2026 “Modern China Through My Eyes” short video competition concluded with an award ceremony in Auckland, New Zealand, drawing 130 students from 24 schools and universities in the city’s consular district who had submitted 45 videos showcasing contemporary China.
The event was held in the heart of Auckland’s cultural district, where delegates from the consulate, university faculty and students gathered to celebrate a competition that has run for three consecutive years.
Chinese Consul General *Chen Shijie* opened the ceremony with remarks on the competition’s importance, noting that it gives New Zealand students a platform to display their Chinese language learning achievements and to tell stories about China from their own perspectives. He encouraged young people in the country to learn Chinese and understand China, positioning them as envoys of China‑New Zealand friendship.
Professor *Lawrence Zhang* of the University of Auckland joined the proceedings, commending the participants for their strong Chinese language skills, creativity and enthusiasm for exploration. He said activities such as this enhance cultural understanding and help strengthen connections between the two nations.
In addition, *Xuelin Zhou*, the New Zealand director of the Confucius Institute at the University of Auckland, highlighted how the students’ video entries captured the changes in Chinese society through concrete images of everyday life, preserving moments that may become meaningful records for future generations.
The award ceremony also featured performances by the students themselves. They presented traditional Chinese dances and songs and delivered speeches in Chinese about how they perceive China, further illustrating the program’s focus on cultural exchange.
While the competition had existed for only a few years, it has already become a notable platform for fostering cross‑border dialogue. Participants reportedly view their submissions as a way to share China’s dynamic social changes with a global audience.
The event’s emphasis on language and culture aligns with the broader goals of the Confucius Institute, which aims to promote Chinese‑language learning outside of mainland China.
Participants and officials reported that the competition offers a unique opportunity for New Zealand students to experience the “unique charm of Chinese culture” firsthand while contributing to a growing body of work that documents contemporary life in China.
Concluding remarks highlighted the continued support of Auckland’s academic community for initiatives that bridge cultural gaps, reaffirming the city’s role as a hub for international collaboration in the arts and language education.