10 May 2005
Banana Conference to peel off tough layers
The first ever Crouching Tiger, Hidden Banana conference will take place in Auckland on Saturday 4th and Sunday 5th June
at the Auckland University of Technology (AUT).
Organised by the New Zealand Chinese Association (Auckland Branch) Inc. (NZCA), the conference is set to address key
issues and raise critical debate around challenges faced by local and overseas born Chinese communities living in New
Zealand.
“The thrust of the conference will be on the evolving identity of Chinese New Zealanders - past, present and future,”
says NZCA Chairman Kai Luey.
“It is a genuine attempt to bridge the gap in understanding between the descendants of the early settlers and recent
migrants. At the same time we will challenge stereotypes and shift perceptions that mainstream society and media have of
our communities,” adds Mr. Luey.
Prominent representatives from community, public, private, academic, creative industries and youth sectors will speak
over the two day period.
The conference organisers encourage those from wider communities such as Mâori, Pakeha, Asian and Pacific Island to
attend.
“Communities don’t exist and function in isolation. They must work together to live together. To do that we must be
prepared to tackle tough social issues,” stresses Mr. Luey.
Full programme, venue and booking details available online at www.goingbananas.org.nz
The conference sponsors are MG Marketing, Asia New Zealand Foundation, Fresh Direct, University of Auckland, The New
Zealand Herald, AUT, Auckland City Libraries, Chuah Design Ltd. and Glacier Investments.
ENDS