35th Anniversary

On May 2nd, staff and students gathered in our campus library to celebrate the tremendous milestone and 35th anniversary of IPU New Zealand (formerly IPC)!

Around 20 minutes prior to commencing at 1 pm, the library was already beginning to fill up with guests, the sound of chatter and a feeling of excitement in the air.

The IPU NZ Kodama Japanese Drum Team kicked things off in style with an energetic performance of one of their favourite numbers – the perfect start to proceedings and extremely fitting for such an occasion.

After a round of applause for Kodama, Hiro Tsumakura (Public Relations Manager) took the floor to speak of his heartfelt gratitude for the enthusiastic turnout and delivered a stirring speech, recollecting some personal experiences and fond memories of his many years serving here at IPU New Zealand.

Mr. Tsumakura also shared the remarkable story of how our institute came into existence and the challenges that were faced by Mr. Hiroshi Ohashi, the President of Soshi Gakuen NZ Incorporated and founder of IPU New Zealand, to establish arguably the very first private tertiary institute in New Zealand back in 1990. This informative presentation concluded with an excerpt from archival video and interview footage of Mr. Ohashi further explaining his vision for this trailblazing institute’s future.

It would be an understatement to say how thrilled we are that Mr. Ohashi’s education goals came to fruition, beginning at the bottom of the world here in Palmerston North. **For more information on our history, see the website link in the comments below.

Next up was the ceremonial cutting of the anniversary cake, which was bestowed upon Yoshihisa Tomonaga (Director General) with applause erupting throughout, followed by a compulsory taste test of the delicious cake for all our attendees.

Furthermore, thanks to Sue Cranston and our fabulous Library Staff, names were drawn, and 35 prizes were gifted to 35 lucky guests. From movie and pizza vouchers to IPU merch and chocolates, all our winners left with a smile on their faces.

As an added special touch, the venue walls were dressed with photos from the past, sparking nostalgia for some and questions from others. A corner was also dedicated to more imagery from yesteryear, including yearbooks, student photos, and saved newspaper articles about IPU New Zealand.

A huge thank you again to our Library Staff for organising this special day, and everyone in attendance for making this 35-year anniversary one to remember.