The Japanese Society of Canterbury was founded on 26 January 1992, and will celebrate its 20th anniversary in 2012. Last year and this year the massive earthquakes in Christchurch and in East Japan caused great loss of life and extensive damage. 

As a contribution to the recovery from both these disasters, and with the aim of bringing local expatriate Japanese residents and all those local residents who love Japanese culture together in a positive spirit of mutual support as they move forward in their lives, we plan to hold a celebration of the Japanese Society’s milestone 20th anniversary. Also, as a way of showcasing the Japanese community’s local presence, we contemplate establishing a regular future event, to be known as Canterbury Japan Day, that will be on a hitherto unseen scale.
To this end we would like seek the approval of all members and sponsors of the Japanese Society, of Japanese businesses, of business organizations that have commercial dealings with Japan or local businesses that have close personal ties with Japanese people, and to ask for their participation in and support of Canterbury Japan Day 2012.
As you know, the intended venues, Riccarton Market and Riccarton Park, are locations that already attract gatherings of some 10,000 people on Sundays, and we anticipate that, as well as attracting people to the event, that may also bring in considerable revenue and create some effective publicity.

With the help of our many volunteers we would like this to be an enjoyable festive occasion that will restore everyone’s strength and spirits.