On 27 July we welcomed 30 students and two teachers from Yasuda Girls’ High School, Hiroshima, Japan.

The students spent two very busy weeks here in Dunedin attending English language classes in the morning, a variety of activities in the afternoon and experiencing life with a Kiwi family. The homestay experience was a highlight for all of the Yasuda students. Junior Japanese classes also enjoyed having the opportunity to try out their Japanese and get to know the Yasuda girls. We had a fantastic session of sharing childhood games from New Zealand and Japan. The smiling faces and laughter emphasised the value of being able to build cross cultural relationships. We are very grateful to all of the host families for their time and effort in ensuring the Yasuda students had a fantastic stay. The morning of their departure saw many sad faces as they waited to get on the bus to return home, but also many promises of staying in touch, and many new friendships that will bridge the two Hemispheres.