Kris Simpson's synopsis of the THS trip to Japan. Kris is an Assistant Principal at THS. Milton Rotary contributed $10,000 towards the trip.
The 2025 Toko in Tokyo group extends its very sincere thanks to the Rotary Club of Milton for its generous support.
The decision was made in 2024 to organise the trip with 4 goals in mind:
-To strengthen ties with our new sister school, Yasuda Gaeken High School located in Ryoguku, Tokyo, Japan.
-To provide as many students as possible with a cultural experience in a different country and expose them to a different language.
-To expand the world view of a substantial number of our students, while at the same time creating an opportunity to appreciate the world and community we live in through a different lens.
-To continue to grow Tokomairiro High School’s reputation in the district as the School of Opportunities, within the Town of Opportunities.
35 of our students made the trip to Japan’s largest city between 26 June and 15 July. Two separate groups got to spend one night in Auckland and five nights in Tokyo, staying in Shinjuku.
Obviously one of the most striking things about the experience for students were the contrasts between New Zealand and Japan. Tokyo’s lively, modern streets of Tokyo and the quiet beauty of its temples and shrines were eye opening. Many have spoken about learning Japanese etiquette, bowing customs, and tasting traditional foods such as chicken katsu curry. These encounters offered big lessons in respect, curiosity, and stepping outside their comfort zones.
Nearly everyone’s highlight was Tokyo Disneyland. For many it was their first experience at a theme park at that scale. There were also unexpected adventures, like being caught in a sudden flash flood that left everyone soaked but laughing. Encountering Tokyo’s bustling train system, getting a view from the heights of the Skytree, and wandering busy streets where big budget films were being made were also unforgettable.
Since their return, students have described how the trip has influenced them personally. They gained independence, resilience, and confidence navigating a new country. Many have remarked that Tokyo’s energy, efficiency, and cleanliness made a strong impact. Others have reflected deeply on the value of respect and community in Japanese culture. Visiting schools and interacting with Japanese students also allowed them to see education and daily life from a VERY different perspective. Most of all, a remarkable number have come back with new priorities and very definite plans for their futures that they didn’t have before. A lot involve returning to Japan.
None of these very positive things would have been possible without the financial support and encouragement of the wider Milton community. The students returned not only with memories, but with new skills, confidence, and perspectives. The generosity of the Rotary Club of Milton has truly opened doors for them, and this trip will remain a treasured milestone in their lives.
Five of the 35 THS students who recently went to Japan
