The Confucius Institute (CIW) at Victoria University of Wellington was formally established in June 2010 in the presence of Chinese President (then Vice President), Xi Jinping, as a partnership with Xiamen University in China. It opened in March 2011 as part of a worldwide association of 500 CIs now operating with the financial backing and support of the Centre for Language Education and Cooperat
ion and Chinese International Education Foundation. The role of CIW is to build New Zealanders’ understanding of and familiarity with China, its language, culture and people. The Institute provides opportunities for New Zealanders to learn Chinese in schools and in tailored and community classes, both in person and online. It brings Chinese artists, writers, musicians and performers to New Zealand audiences for an experience of Chinese traditional and contemporary culture, often in collaboration with Kiwi artists and performers. Being part of Victoria University of Wellington, CIW contributes to building engagement and academic links with China, especially with Confucius Institute partner, Xiamen University.
