Whakatāne Mayor Dr Victor Luca is calling on rangatahi and young professionals across the district to step forward and represent Aotearoa New Zealand in a cultural exchange with Jiangxi Province, China.

“This is a powerful opportunity for our young people to step onto the world stage, grow personally and professionally, and proudly represent not just Whakatāne, but all of Aotearoa,” he said.

“We want to see our local voices, including those of our iwi partners, reflected in this initiative. It’s about building lasting bridges between cultures and showcasing the richness of our identity.”

The programme, part of the Bay of Plenty – Jiangxi Sister Province relationship, is accepting applications for its 2025 intake. Applications close on June 24.

It seeks enthusiastic participants aged 18 to 30 to take part in an immersive, 3-month experience designed to foster cross-cultural understanding and international connection. While preference is given to younger applicants from participating districts and iwi, those over 30 may be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Dr Luca sees the exchange as a life-changing opportunity.

“This isn’t just travel - it’s about connection, learning, and representing the spirit of our district,” he said.

“I wholeheartedly encourage our young people to apply and help shape the future of international friendship. Whether you're a recent graduate, a working professional, or someone looking for a meaningful new challenge, this programme offers an exceptional opportunity for personal growth and professional development.

“This programme could be a defining chapter in your life - an experience that opens doors, broadens perspectives, and builds lifelong connections. I urge our young people: take this chance and be part of something truly special.”

The Jiangxi Volunteer Programme, launched in 2024, has already proven to be a success. Last year, volunteers aged 19–30 spent three months living and working in Jiangxi, assisting in local schools and universities. They supported classroom activities, shared Kiwi and Māori culture, and contributed to school life. In return, they were immersed in everyday Chinese culture - learning Mandarin, taking part in festivals, marathons, and sporting events, and forging lifelong friendships.

One of the first volunteers, Samantha Gamman, describes the experience as transformative:

“Being part of the first volunteer group was life-changing. The people in Jiangxi were incredibly friendly and welcoming – I was often reminded that I might be one of the only foreigners some of them will ever meet, which made the cultural exchange feel even more meaningful.

"Each city and province we visited had its own unique traditions, history, and beauty. The high-speed trains made exploring so accessible, and I was constantly amazed at how much there was to see and do.

"What’s stayed with me most are the deep connections I built with the students, teachers, and fellow volunteers – it felt like being part of a global whānau. I would absolutely encourage anyone thinking about applying to go for it.”

Building on this success, the 2025 programme is expanding to offer up to 40 placements - the largest intake yet. Places are limited and filling fast. With the deadline quickly approaching, interested applicants are strongly encouraged to apply early to avoid missing out on this incredible opportunity.

Participants will:

· Take part in cultural workshops, school placements, and Mandarin language classes

· Share New Zealand and Māori culture with Chinese peers and host communities

· Develop skills in public speaking, cross-cultural communication, and leadership

· Engage in community life and events throughout Jiangxi Province

Many past participants have gone on to careers in diplomacy, education, and international development - and have continued to maintain strong ties with their Chinese hosts.

Eligibility requirements:

· New Zealand citizenship

· Valid passport

· Native English speaker

· Clean criminal record and character references

· Enthusiasm, cultural sensitivity, and a willingness to engage in cultural exchange
While NCEA Level 3 is recommended, personal character and cultural engagement are highly valued. Fluency in Te Reo Māori is not required, but applicants who can respectfully promote Māori perspectives will be strong contenders.

Key dates:

· Applications close: Tuesday, 24 June

· Successful applicants notified: Friday, 27 June

· Training programme: June–August 2025 (including leadership development and language orientation)

· Departure: Mid -September

· Return: Mid-December 2025

To apply:
Submit a CV, a short motivation letter, and a one-minute video introduction. Optional reference letters are encouraged.

Applications should be sent to:
Simon Appleton
Email: [email protected]
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. Early applications are strongly encouraged.