A group of eight GirlGuiding rangers from around the Bay of Plenty are preparing to head to Japan next year.

The rangers are from three units – four from Tauranga, three from Katikati, and one from Whakatāne, along with two leaders – and will participate in a sister city exchange to Hitachi City in April.

GirlGuiding Bay of Plenty has a long-standing exchange programme with the Girl Scouts of Hitachi City in Japan, said Team Bay of Plenty co-local coordindator and Papamoa Brownies leader Lauren Davis.

“This initiative began in 2001 following an invitation from Mayor Kashimura of Hitachi City as part of the sister city relationship between Tauranga and Hitachi.

“The exchange occurs biennially, with either Hitachi Girl Scouts visiting New Zealand or Bay of Plenty Ranger Guides traveling to Japan.”

Davis said 2023 was the most recent visit by the Hitachi Girl Scouts who came to New Zealand, “we proudly celebrated the 22nd anniversary of this enriching exchange programme”.

Over the past 22 years, Bay of Plenty girls and leaders have visited Hitachi five times, with the last in-person group sent in 2017.

In 2021, due to international border closures caused by Covid restrictions, we adapted by hosting a virtual exchange, said Davis.

Isabelle Stockdale, left, Ava McCarthy and Emma Hunt prepare for the task ahead.

To date, about 95 members have participated in this cultural exchange - 49 from New Zealand and 46 from Japan.

“The primary goal of this programme is to foster cultural understanding and meaningful friendships between New Zealand Girl Guides and Japanese Girl Scouts,” said Davis.

“Participants live with guiding host families, engage in guiding, cultural, and school activities, and learn to appreciate both the differences and similarities between their cultures.

“Ultimately, this programme helps to strengthen the sister city bond between Hitachi and Tauranga.

“This exchange programme is one of the many opportunities open to members of GirlGuiding New Zealand, but this Exchange programme with Hitachi Girl Scouts is unique to Bay of Plenty GirlGuiding.”

The exchange is self-funded, said Davis.

“Our rangers and their families are fundraising for this trip.

“We would also welcome any support from the local community.” 

For more information, visit www.girlguidingnz.org.nz