Outdoor Adventure Education Boost for Capital

Chinese students will be calling Wellington the home of outdoor adventure, following the establishment of a cooperation programme between Whitireia Polytechnic and China's Capital University of Physical Education and Sports.

A cooperation programme has been established between Capital University of Physical Education and Sports (CUPES) and Whitireia Polytechnic New Zealand (Whitireia) by Professor Dr. Zhong, Binggshu, President of Capital University of Physical Education and Sports on behalf of CUPES, and Ms Meijian Chi, Deputy General Manager-International Whitireia Polytechnic New Zealand on behalf of Whitireia, in Beijing.

Meijian Chi said the purpose of the cooperative programme is to enhance collaboration between two institutions, especially in the area of outdoor adventure.

"Both universities have dominant advantages and will share opportunities with more academic and cultural communication," said Ms Chi. The first group of students from CUPES will arrive in Wellington in August 2012.

The 40th anniversary of diplomatic ties between China and New Zealand, and the 6th anniversary of sister city relationship between Wellington and Beijing are being celebrated in 2012.

"This cooperation agreement is very significant to our sister city relationship. Being part of the Mayoral Delegation enabled us to speed up this important agreement," said Ms Chi.

"Wellington's marvellous outdoor environment and Whitireia's specialisation in outdoor sports education made a convincing case to CUPES staff and students," said Mayor Celia Wade-Brown.

"Wellington has a tremendous education sector. This agreement presents a significant opportunity to provide a further boost to our economy through the international education market."

Wellington City Council's economy portfolio leader Jo Coughlan, who is travelling with the delegation, said "the agreements and deals reached so far on this Mayoral trade delegation are great evidence of the talent, creativity and diversity of the Wellington economy. This is another great example of attracting business to Wellington and delivering on our goal of 10,000 jobs."