Celebrating our relationship with Japan
Last week Mayor John Leggett met with Japanese Ambassador Hiroyasu Kobayashi to celebrate three decades of sister city relationships with Japan.
In 1989, the Council established a sister city agreement with Tendo, followed by Otari two years later.
The first sister city relationship began with Marlborough’s cherry export industry. Two years later our relationship with Otari Village in Nagano Prefecture was sparked through friendships made in the Outward Bound movement.
Over 500 Marlborough students have visited Japan as part of the sister city relationship.
Each year Council supports four local students to visit Tendo or Otari, and in turn, hosts four students from each city here.
Caption: Left to right: Councillor Gerald Hope, former Mayor Alistair Sowman, former councillor Graeme Barsanti, Ambassador Kobayashi and Mayor John Leggett
Poll: How should Guy Fawkes be celebrated?
While it is a fun occasion, fireworks on Guy Fawkes Night has caused much conflict over the years, upsetting our pets and disrupting the sleep of neighbours.
How should we celebrate Guy Fawkes Night? Vote in our poll and share your thoughts below.
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28.4% With a city-wide public fireworks display
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20.1% Small fireworks displays in each community
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7.8% Keep it as is
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32.7% We shouldn't celebrate it!
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10.5% Anything but fireworks
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0.4% Other - I'll share below
Brain Burn Alert! Today’s Riddle Will Make You Think Twice!
What is seen in the middle of March and April that can't be seen at the beginning or end of either month?
Do you think you know the answer to our daily riddle? Don't spoil it for your neighbours! Simply 'Like' this post and we'll post the answer in the comments below at 2pm.
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What's your favourite recipe for gooseberry?
Love gooseberries? Share your favourite way to enjoy them. We're looking for our readers' favourite family recipes for this delicious crop. Send yours to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the magazine, you will receive a free copy of our December 2024 issue.