Assistants spread the word in Mandarin

Mandarin language assistants from China are welcomed to New Zealand by the Confucius Institute at Auckland University. Photo / Natalie Slade

Mandarin language assistants, entering New Zealand under the free trade agreement with China, have arrived to help the Beijing-backed Confucius Institute spread the word in Mandarin.

The University of Auckland-based institute has set a target of having 50,000 Kiwis learning the language annually, and says the 22 language assistants will substantially increase the level of interest in the language.

Institute general manager Gillian Eadie said the number of students in schools learning Mandarin has more than doubled to 16,800 from 7000 in 2010, and believes it is close to achieving its target.

"The Ministry of Education's figures do not include some schools we know have been teaching Chinese under our guidance, and we also have no data for the numbers learning in community schools, online courses, continuing education courses and privately," Ms Eadie said.

"Our sense is that, if all these are included, we are probably getting close to the target figure of 50,000."

Ms Eadie said the language assistants, who will be placed in schools throughout the country, will also be assisting in improving the quality of instruction that students are receiving.

In 2010, the institute brought in six language assistants, but increased it to eight in 2011, 12 last year and 22 this time.

"This tangible support is greatly appreciated by schools and an increasing number are now making inquiries about assistance they may be able to gain through the institute," said Ms Eadie.

Institute director Nora Yao said an increasing number of Kiwis were realising the importance of learning Mandarin.

"So many principals, teachers and parents now recognise that young New Zealanders need Mandarin for future employment and engagement with our close neighbour, China," Ms Yao said.

As part of the free trade agreement, a quota of up to 150 Mandarin language assistants can come under a special immigration work category.

Other occupations include Chinese chef, tour guide and martial arts instructor.

China pays the travel costs and living allowances for the language assistants, while New Zealand supports them with accommodation and insurance.