New Zealand delegation praises community service center in Shanghai's Huangpu district

​The New Zealand delegation and local officials pose for a photo at the Dapuqiao Subdistrict Party and Community Service Center in Shanghai's Huangpu district on April 3. [Photo by Li Junfeng/chinadaily.com.cn]

A five-member New Zealand delegation, led by John Tamihere, CEO of the Waipareira Trust and president of the Maori Party, visited the Dapuqiao Subdistrict Party and Community Service Center on April 3 as part of a three-day trip to Shanghai.

The visit aimed to deepen exchanges with Shanghai in key areas such as economy, trade, culture and grassroots governance.

Located at No 223 Mengzi Road, the five-story Dapuqiao Subdistrict Party and Community Service Center is the largest facility of its kind in the Huangpu district, covering 9,205 square meters. It serves as a central hub for community resources, Party-building activities and volunteer services.

Inside, a wide range of spaces such as parent-child rooms, a community library, multi-functional classrooms, a gym and a performance theater support residents of all ages and contribute to a safe and well-served community.

​Two delegation members get to experience VR devices. [Photo by Li Junfeng/chinadaily.com.cn]

Tamihere praised the center's inclusive approach, noting that its wide range of services plays a vital role in supporting both younger and older residents. He was particularly impressed by the artificial intelligence education program for the elderly and the center's parent-child services, which he described as highly reflective of community needs.

"What we saw here aligns closely with what we value back home," he said, adding that such initiatives highlight the importance of investing in both families and ageing populations.

Tamihere also highlighted the broader impression the visit left on the delegation, describing Shanghai as dynamic and purposeful, with residents fully engaged in the city's development.

"It is the many small things that make the big things work, and together they create Shanghai's distinct vibrancy," he said.