Japanese sister city delegation visits Napier

Napier is hosting a 37-strong delegation from Tomakomai, Japan, as part of the 35th anniversary celebrations between the two sister cities.

Tomorrow at 10am (Friday 13 November) there is an official ceremony at the Napier City Council chambers to formally welcome and acknowledge the long-standing relationship.


Ainu Treasure Box アネスオプ – from the late Edo era (1700-1870). An example of a highly valued lacquer ware piece brought into Ainu society through trade with the Japanese people. Photo courtesy of Napier City Council

During their three-day stay in Napier the delegation will visit Mission Estate Winery, Pan Pac Forest Products, Osawa Winery, Pukemokimoki marae, and open a small exhibition of art and indigenous objects on loan from Napier’s sister city Tomakomai, opening at MTG on Saturday (14 November).

Treasures of Tomakomai, which includes objects loaned by the Tomakomai City Museum,  features paintings inspired by the beauty of the natural environment alongside rare examples of jewellery, weapons, tools and ceramics from the indigenous Ainu people. It will run until 29 November.


Shitoki Necklace シトキタマサイ– from the late Edo era (1700-1870). Worn by Ainu women on special occasions. The glass beads were obtained primarily through trade with the Asian continent. Both items are on loan from Tomakomai City Museum. Photo courtesy of Napier City Council

Tomakomai is a port city, and is the fifth largest city in the Hokkaido region of Japan. Napier’s relationship with the city extends back to the 1970s when wood pulp from the Whirinaki processing plant began being shipped to Tomakomai paper mills. The sister city relationship was formalised in 1980.

Tomakomai sits between the foothills of Mt Turamae and the Pacific Ocean, and is surrounded by national park.