The Dutch Language Weekend is a new initiative celebrating the Dutch language and its connection to culture, identity and community across Aotearoa New Zealand. The weekend brings together Dutch-speaking communities and anyone interested in the language and its heritage through a range of activities for all ages.
Keen to freshen up your Dutch ahead of the weekend? Have a look at our videos with Meester Jos on our YouTube channel and Facebook page.

Read more about the background of the initiative in our earlier news article.

Thursday 4 December - Panel discussion on language regression and health (Auckland)
Auckland University of Technology will host a discussion on language loss and reversion, highlighting both older immigrants who revert to their first language and younger generations gradually losing their mother tongue.

Time: 5:00–6:30pm, followed by drinks hosted by the Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands.
Location: Auckland University of Technology, City Campus

How to participate: please send an e-mail to wel-functions@minbuza.nl

Friday 5 December - Story competition (nationwide)

Children across New Zealand are invited to take part in a story-writing competition to explore the Dutch language, and the relation to culture and identity, in a playful and creative way.

Location: online, details will follow soon

Saturday 6 December – Sports classes with a Dutch touch (Wellington)

Les Mills Taranaki Street will host two interactive sports classes that introduce Dutch words in a fun, active setting. The classes are suitable for all fitness levels.

Times:

• 9:00-9:45am: BodyPump (more information: BodyPump - Barbell Strength Training - Les Mills NZ - Les Mills)
• 11:00-11:40am: The Trip (more information: The Trip - Immersive Cycling Experience - Les Mills NZ - Les Mills)

Location: Les Mills Taranaki Street, Wellington

How to participate: Not a Les Mills member? No problem! E-mail wel-functions@minbuza.nl and we can arrange a registration. Please note: spots are limited.

Saturday 6 December and Sunday 7 December - Dutch language festival, Christchurch and Palmerston North
Christchurch’s Tūranga Library and the Palmerston North City Library will host an interactive Dutch language festival featuring games, bilingual storytime and creative activities.

Christchurch’s Tūranga Library

Programme details will follow soon.

Palmerston North City Library

• Saturday 6 December, 10:30-11:30am: Come and listen to Dutch children’s stories (read in English) and colour in some well-known Dutch characters (for more information, visit Palmerston North City Library)
• Sunday 7 December, 10:30-11:30am: Screening of the Dutch children’s movie ‘Miffy, The Movie’, suitable for young children (for more information, visit Palmerston North City Library)

Throughout the weekend there will also be a treasure hunt in the Children’s Area, colouring sheets, and a Dutch language display.

How to participate: no registration needed - walk-in activities

Saturday  and Sunday 7 December - Sinterklaas celebrations

Traditional Sinterklaas events will take place across New Zealand, organized by Dutch clubs and societies. These gatherings highlight the cultural roots of the Dutch language and bring together generations in celebration. Contact your local Dutch clubs about the details!

We hope to see you at one of our events!