M A N D A R I N S U P E R S T A R
M A N D A R I N S U P E R S T A R
M A N D A R I N S U P E R S T A R
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Billie Dufty
Whanganui Highschool
When did you start learning Chinese? What inspired you to take up the language?
I started learning Chinese as a kid while growing up in China—it was part of my everyday life. I didn’t choose it at first, but over time, I grew to appreciate the language and culture. Now, living in New Zealand, I’m inspired to keep it up because it helps me stay connected to my roots and bridges two worlds I’m part of.
Tell us about your Chinese language learning journey. What has been the most unexpected or rewarding part of the experience?
I grew up in China, so I learned Chinese naturally as a kid. Now that I’m back in New Zealand, it’s been incredibly rewarding to see how it shapes my perspective—being bilingual helps me connect with people from different backgrounds and gives me a deeper appreciation for both cultures.
What opportunities have opened up for you as a result of your Chinese speaking ability?
Being able to speak Chinese has opened up opportunities to connect with Chinese communities in New Zealand, help with translation or cultural understanding, and build relationships across cultures. It’s also given me an edge in school projects and could lead to future career paths in international business, education, or diplomacy.
Why do you think other New Zealanders should learn Chinese?
Learning Chinese can open up a whole new world—China plays a big role globally, and knowing the language helps build stronger cultural and business connections. For New Zealanders, it’s a great way to understand a different perspective, connect with our Chinese communities, and stand out in an increasingly global job market.
Do you have any tips for anyone thinking about taking up Chinese?
My biggest tip is to take it step by step—focus on speaking and listening first, and don’t stress about making mistakes. What’s helped me a lot is having a sister who also speaks Chinese. I’m really grateful for that because it means I always have someone to practise with, which makes learning feel more natural and less intimidating. Try to use the language in everyday life, even in small ways—it really adds up over time.
Do you have a favourite Chinese word or expression? Why do you like it?
One of my favourite Chinese words is “爱” (ài), which means love. I like it because it’s simple but powerful—it can mean love for family, friends, or even for a passion or place. To me, it represents the connection I still feel to China and my childhood there, even though I live in New Zealand now.