Japanese Speech Contest
For All Ages | みんなのにほんごスピーチコンテスト
What does Japan mean to you?
Do you have memories, dreams, or stories connected to Japan? Come and share your passion for Japan in Japanese! Whether you are a beginner or an advanced speaker, everyone is welcome to join. Challenge yourself, share your voice, and celebrate Japanese language and culture together!
3 Levels
初級 (Beginner)
Less than 1 year of Japanese study
中級 (Intermediate)
Less than 5 years of study
上級 (Advanced)
5 years or more of study
Contest Format
Applications
Register your details through the Microsoft Form by 9 October. Submit your speech script by email by 26 October 2026.
Speeches are limited to 1 minute.
Theme: "Japan and Me" - Tell us anything you like about Japan, your memories and goals related to the country.
You do not need to memorise your speech. You may refer to your script while speaking.
Japanese heritage speakers are welcome to participate.
Presentation & Award Ceremony
- 1 November 2026 (12:00-13:00)
-
Te Matapihi ki te Ao Nui, Wellington Central
Library
(Online participation available)
Participants will deliver their
speeches live on-site or online.
Certificates will be presented to
the winners!
Judging Criteria
- Content (30 pts): Creativity, relevance to theme, audience engagement.
- Fluency (10 pts): Confidence, smooth delivery.
- Clarity (10 pts): Pronunciation, voice projection, expression.
- * Speeches over or under the 1-minute limit may lose points.
Eligibility & Rules
- • Open to Japanese learners of all backgrounds, including students, teachers and those learning independently.
- • Japanese heritage speakers are welcome to participate.
- • Speeches must be original and unpublished.
- • No political, commercial, or religious promotion.
- • Participants may refer to their script while speaking.