About Us
We Learn and Have Fun
TEACHING PHILOSOPHY
Learning with Fun and Purpose
We believe that learning should be exciting, not tedious! Our approach blends fun with education, creating a vibrant atmosphere where students engage with Mandarin beyond traditional textbooks. Through interactive activities, we allow students to use the language practically, fostering meaningful connections with others.
OUR COMMITMENT
Helping Our Students Grow
At Pistachio Mandarin, we’re passionate about nurturing growth, confidence, and real-life skills in every student. Our supportive environment is designed to ensure that our students aren’t just learning Mandarin but thriving.
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Personalised feedback to support the learning journey
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Progress monitoring to ensure steady growth
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Celebrating every achievement along the way
Our Story
In October 2017, Yatchun Wong founded Pistachio Mandarin Language Centre with a vision to make learning Mandarin enjoyable and inspiring for Kiwi kids and adults. Being of Chinese and Malaysian descent, Yatchun’s passion for language education began with her desire to provide her daughter with opportunities to learn Mandarin. Driven by this vision, Yatchun established Pistachio Mandarin Language Centre to create a space where students could learn to communicate in Chinese through interactive, practical, and fun experiences.
Today, our courses for second-language learners emphasise practical communication and cultural engagement, blending New Zealand’s teaching methods with lessons that are both enjoyable and relevant to everyday life. Guided by an experienced mentor, our passionate tutors collaborate to design meaningful resources and structured lessons that bring language learning to life. We strive to create an engaging environment using tools such as YouTube videos, games, quizzes, and role-play, where students immerse themselves in Mandarin and build confidence in their communication skills.
Meet The Team
At Pistachio, our tutors are at the heart of everything we do. Each one brings a unique story, passion for teaching, and love for the Mandarin language. Whether it’s helping little learners say their first words or guiding older students through conversations, our team is dedicated to making language learning meaningful and fun.
Yatchun
Founder & Managing Director
Why did you choose to start Pistachio?
I have worked as a Finance professional throughout my career and had the opportunity to work with large and SME businesses. Whilst doing so, I found that the owners were entrepreneurs and visionaries. Inspired by their spirit, I turned an idea into reality. With no background in teaching, I set out to create a fun and practical way for Kiwi kids and adults to learn Mandarin Chinese.
Andrea
Mandarin Tutor & Team Lead
Why did you choose to teach Mandarin?
Growing up, I learned Mandarin in a rote and traditional way. This experience inspired me to teach in the way I wish I had been taught – through an encouraging, adaptable, and supportive environment. I find it rewarding to see my students grow, and I enjoy creating a fun and dynamic atmosphere that helps them stay motivated and genuinely enjoy learning the language.
Elaina
Tutor
Why did you choose to teach Mandarin?
I was a peer tutor during high school and I really enjoyed helping others to understand more. And as a Chinese person, teaching Mandarin in an English-speaking country has always been my dream job of some sort, as one of the best ways to promote Chinese culture is through the language.
Saleha
Tutor
Why did you choose to teach Mandarin?
Coming from a multicultural background, I’ve always loved exploring different languages and cultures. So, I studied Chinese for five years and had the chance to visit China, which was amazing! Teaching Mandarin is fun for me because I get to share what I’ve learned, connect with people, and help them enjoy the language as much as I do!
Sophie
Tutor
Why did you choose to teach Mandarin?
I have chosen to teach Chinese as I love to connect with my students through language. Coming from a multicultural background, I understand that language learning and teaching is beneficial in expanding one’s worldview, and strengthening cognitive abilities. Overall, it is great fun to see the younger generation so excited to learn Mandarin!
Yui
Tutor
Why did you choose to teach Mandarin?
I’ve engaged in teaching Mandarin since 2011. It’s fun and challenging to support our learners to improve their language skill and be able to use it on a daily basis. My student groups are all ages including the young kids ( ie from 5 years old), primary school and high school, and uni. students as well as adults.
Dewey
Tutor
Why did you choose to teach Mandarin?
I have been an engineer all my life and wanted to try something different. Being a native mandarin speaker and a fluent English speaker, teaching mandarin became a natural choice.
Manaal
Marketing Assistant
Why did you choose to work at Pistachio?
I’ve always enjoyed learning and being immersed in different worldviews, and as the marketing assistant, I love finding creative ways to share what we do and bring Pistachio’s vibrant learning environment to life. Seeing the teachers’ dedication and the kids’ enthusiasm reminds me every day that this is such a special place to be.
Experience a free trial lesson!
Discover why our Auckland-based Chinese Mandarin classes are the most fun and engaging. Our courses are tailored to the New Zealand curriculum, using the latest teaching methods and up-to-date resources. Our passionate native-speaking teachers are highly experienced in teaching Kiwi students, ensuring a top-notch learning experience.