Chinese martial arts once again demonstrated its majestic presence as the 2024 Fifth Xiangshang Cup New Zealand National Martial Arts Championship and the Chinese Martial Arts Culture Month event kicked off in Auckland. The prestigious tournament took place at the Auckland Netball Center on September 1, attracting nearly 500 martial artists of various ages and ethnicities from across New Zealand.
Event Overview
Jointly organized by the New Zealand Martial Arts Federation and the New Zealand Hunan General Chamber of Commerce, the event received special support from the Auckland Chinese Cultural Center. The championship, which has become an eagerly awaited annual event for martial arts enthusiasts, saw the participation of a Chinese National Martial Arts Association elite delegation, who traveled to New Zealand to observe and cheer for the competitors.
Growth and Innovation
Since the inaugural Xiangshang Cup in 2019, the event has adhered to the spirit of both tradition and innovation, continuously promoting the popularity and development of Chinese martial arts in New Zealand. This year’s tournament was notable for its unprecedented scale and upgraded standards, with a record number of participants. The competition featured three major categories: martial arts routines (including weapons like swords, spears, knives, and staffs), Tai Chi, and Sanda, with a total of 72 events. Participants represented a variety of genders, age groups, and martial arts styles.
A significant innovation this year was the introduction of a large electronic screen and stage, bringing a modern and professional touch to the event. Both seasoned masters and emerging talents had the opportunity to showcase their skills and exchange techniques, highlighting the boundless charm and diverse styles of Chinese martial arts.
Distinguished Guests
The opening ceremony was graced by a host of dignitaries, including:
- Chinese Consul General in Auckland, Mr. Chen Shijie, and Cultural Consul, Mr. Zhou Li
- New Zealand Ministers of Arts, Cultural and Heritage, Justice, and State Owned Enterprises, with representations from Hon Paul Goldsmith
- New Zealand National Party MPs Lu Nan and Zhang Junhao
- New Zealand Labour Party MPs Hon Dr Deborah Russell and Helen White
- Chinese Martial Arts Association delegation leader Mr. Zheng Nan
- New Zealand businessman and community leader Dr. Yang Jian
- Auckland Chinese Cultural Center Director Mr. Wang Jianwen
- President of the New Zealand Martial Arts Federation, Mr. Glen Keith
- And many other community leaders and representatives from various sectors.
Over 1000 attendees, including media representatives and martial arts enthusiasts, gathered to witness the grand opening and cheer for the participants.
Opening Remarks
Glen Keith, the President of the New Zealand Martial Arts Federation, delivered the welcome speech on behalf of the organizers. He extended a warm welcome to the guests, the Chinese delegation, and the martial artists from across New Zealand. He also expressed sincere gratitude to the sponsors, supporters, and volunteers who contributed to the event’s success.
Chinese Consul General Chen Shijie, in his speech, extended congratulations on behalf of the Chinese Embassy in New Zealand and the Auckland Consulate. He highlighted the importance of martial arts as a cultural treasure of China, noting its 1500-year history and the fact that approximately 1.2 billion people worldwide practice martial arts, over half of whom are young people. He emphasized that martial arts are not just a skill but also an art of balancing the mind and body, embodying the Chinese philosophy of using martial arts to stop conflict.
Consul General Chen pointed out that with the 10th anniversary of the comprehensive strategic partnership between China and New Zealand, martial arts have become an important bridge for deepening cultural exchanges between the two countries. He quoted the Chinese proverb Using martial arts to make friends and expressed hope that through this unique art form, more New Zealanders can better understand China and its culture.
Conclusion
The 2024 New Zealand National Martial Arts Championship was a resounding success, not just as a sports event but as a celebration of cultural exchange and friendship. The tournament served as a testament to the enduring appeal of Chinese martial arts and its ability to bring people together across borders and cultures.
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