Mandarin Corner

Mandarin Corner is a relaxed monthly conversational meet up with native Chinese speakers for anyone interested in learning Chinese.

Mandarin Corner (Wellington), established in 1995, enables people learning Chinese or interested in Chinese culture,  to meet with native speakers to practice their language and participate in cultural activities in a friendly, relaxed setting.

Mandarin On Air is our online version of Mandarin Corner, where you can tune in online or listen to podcast recordings of language and culture programs with our local Mandarin Language Assistants.

Mandarin Corner - Chinese Club

Join us for Mandarin Corner on Saturdays, from 3.30-5.00pm. Drop in and learn about a Chinese culture, participate in a hands-on activity, practice your Chinese and meet others interested in Chinese language and traditions.

We will explore a different cultural topic each session.

All sessions are held at the Rutherford House, Victoria University of Wellington, Pipitea Campus. Usually, the venue is room G24, except where noted. The venue may change during the year.

2026 Schedule

Date	Venue	Topic
28 February	RHG24	Discover China’s Valentine’s days & weave your own luck
28 March	RHG24	Learn about Chinese painting and paint your own symbol of noble virtue
2 May	RHG24	Explore the art of Yongchun lacquer baskets and paint your own
6 June	RHG24	Celebrate the Dragon Boat festival and craft your own herbal sachet
25 July	RHG24	Chinese shadow puppetry - experience the storytelling magic of shadow puppetry
8 August	RHG24	Tai Chi - immerse yourself in traditional Chinese martial arts and practice
12 September	RHG24	Mid-Autumn festival - explore its traditions, food, characters & crafts
17 October	TBC	Chinese gold-foil burning art
14 November	RHG24	Baduanjin wellness - explore the philosophy of baduanjin, including its connection to Traditional Chinese Medicine
5 December		TBC

So we can manage access please let confucius-institute@vuw.ac.nz know you are planning to come.  All welcome!

Mandarin On Air