Cultures & Languages in East Auckland – Japanese & English

Konnichiwa, I’m Tomo!

Topics:
We can talk about things like:

• anime, films, and memorable scenes
• useful Japanese for travel
• Japanese culture and manners
• business communication and etiquette
• everyday expressions and natural phrasing
• language questions from beginner to advanced level
• and many other things!

Background:
I’ve been teaching Japanese lately, and through conversations about films, series, art, travel, and language, I realised how much I enjoy exchanging ideas and interpretations with others — and hearing their perspectives.
So I thought, why not create a small, casual space where we can talk, share, learn, and go a bit deeper together in English and Japanese?
This is a relaxed small-group meetup for people who enjoy languages and cultures — whether you are learning Japanese, preparing for a trip, interested in anime and film, or simply want to have thoughtful and fun conversations.
So, yes — if you want to really nerd out about The Last Samurai, JJK, Chainsaw Man, Shogun, Ikusagami (Last Samurai Standing), and other films and series, you might have just found the right place for you.
Let’s go a bit deeper.
This is not a formal class. It’s a friendly conversation space where we can exchange ideas, interpretations, questions, and perspectives in a small group setting.

Group size
Maximum 4 people (Including the host)

Who can join

• All Japanese levels are welcome
• All ages are welcome (children should be accompanied by a parent or guardian)

Location
Botany Library (East Tamaki)

Schedule
Once a month — every first Sunday
3:00 PM – 4:00 PM

Arigatou — looking forward to meeting you!

Hi! This is an introductory weekly Japanese session designed to help you improve your Japanese through consistent, practical use.
Whether your goal is:

• preparing for a trip to Japan
• having natural conversations
• understanding anime and films without subtitles
• improving business Japanese
  or simply building confidence

this session is a space where you can actively use the language, ask questions, and develop your skills step by step.
Rather than passive learning, the focus is on speaking, understanding, and applying Japanese in real situations.

Style / Structure

• 1-on-1 online or in-person sessions
• First session is free (no pressure — just see if it suits you)
• Relaxed and friendly, but structured enough to support real progress
• Lessons tailored to your level, interests, and goals
• Flexible materials: conversation, scenarios, anime clips, articles, or specific topics

If you feel the lessons are a good fit, we can continue with regular sessions at $50 per hour, scheduled at times that work for you.

Tutor Background
I was born and raised in Japan and have been teaching Japanese since 2015.

• Native Japanese speaker (Tokyo accent, familiar with Osaka dialect)
• Studied Film and Chinese at Victoria University of Wellington
• Professional experience in a translation company in Japan
• Supported non-native speakers in both casual and business Japanese
• Currently teaching students online and in-person across different levels (beginner to advanced)

Through teaching and working with people from different backgrounds, I’ve developed a strong interest in how language, culture, and communication connect.
I understand how challenging learning a new language can be — and how rewarding it is to express yourself more clearly over time.
If you're interested, feel free to join the first session and see if it works for you.

Arigatou — looking forward to practicing with you!

Tomo