Oshima - English

Oshima - English

Participant - Mr. Hiroaki Oshima

日本語(大島)=>

Because I was chosen to be part of a goodwill exchange between Kurashiki and Christchurch, I was able to visit Christchurch, New Zealand.

 Probably the most exciting thing I did during my visit was a bungee jump. I also have many good memories of painting portraits of the people who very kindly invited me to Christchurch. I also brought some my paintings with me from Japan to give as presents. I was very happy to have been invited to two home parties. The food was very delicious and I had a fun time.

 This time, I was only able to visit Christchurch for just two weeks. I think that the next time I visit there I would like to stay for at least two months!
 

Caregiver - Satoshi Tsubota

日本語(坪田)=>

 We visited Kurashiki's sister city, Christchurch, New Zealand for two weeks from the middle of February.  A Christchurch business invited disabled persons who play sports to go for international exchange.  Hiroaki Oshima was selected and I attended as his caregiver. 

 We were warmly received in Christchurch, were given a welcome ceremony and dinner and had a very full schedule every day from morning till evening.  In addition to Hiroaki, a wheelchair tennis player and university student from Kurashiki also participated in the trip.  We all had a wonderful and worthwhile experience

 After returning home the boys gave a report to the Mayor at city hall and also held a photo exhibit at the Welfare Plaza.  Hiroaki overcame his nerves and performed his duties as goodwill ambassador comendably and was also of great assistance while in Christchurch helping with our wheelchair bound participant.
   Commemorative photo at City Hall after the welcome ceremony
 2 Commemorative photo with our some of our Christchurch hosts