Recently, 22 students from Shanwei, Guangdong, were presented with certificates of honor from Hastings, New Zealand, after their paintings were showcased at the 2026 Osmanthus Gardens Lantern Festival and became one of the highlights of this year's event. Signed by the mayor of Hastings, the certificates recognized the students' works and contributions to the festival.
Inspired by Shanwei's local scenery, the artworks depict the city's iconic landmarks, historical and cultural heritage, coastal landscapes, and vibrant urban and rural communities. Through imaginative expression, the paintings capture Shanwei's unique character, where history and modernity meet between mountains and the sea.
The festival attracted more than 16,000 visitors, with the Shanwei-themed exhibition drawing large crowds. The mayor praised the students' work and personally presented the certificates, recognizing their role in promoting cultural exchanges between the two cities.
Hastings has long been a center for cultural exchange in New Zealand. Since its launch in 2010, the Lantern Festival has grown into one of the country's leading celebrations of Chinese culture. Shanwei and Hastings established a Friendship City partnership in October 2025, with the festival serving as an important platform for continued exchanges.
Author | He Fengyu
Photo | Nanfang Plus
