The journey to the Olympic Games is a long one, but every journey begins with just one step. In New Zealand Parliament's Great Hall, New Zealand's campaign to Beijing began Thursday.

Heralded by the words "Bring on Beijing," the New Zealand Olympic Committee introduced New Zealanders to the bold red and white "Yin," or seal, that stamps New Zealand's mark on its road to Beijing.

"Bring on Beijing" is a compelling call to action for athletes and supporters alike and evokes the national character, said Eion Edgar, president of the Committee.

"New Zealanders have got a unique spirit that lends itself to the idea of 'bring it on'," explained Secretary General, Barry Maister.

"We're a creative, innovative nation and we take one step at a time to get things done. Beijing 2008 will be no exception," said Maister.

The welcoming chant of a traditional New Zealand mihi and the swish and swirl of the piupiu (reed skirts) of the Glenview School Kapa Haka group from Porirua East in Wellington grounded the event in New Zealand culture at the ceremony.

A flash of color and the dazzling brilliance of the Chinese kids' finale left the audience with no doubt as to where the games are heading.

It was introduced that Beijing 2008 is the first Olympic Games for which New Zealand has had its own unique mark.

The New Zealand Games Team will include up to 300 athletes and support staff, and is likely be the biggest team in 100 years of New Zealand's Olympic Games participation.

(Xinhua News Agency June 15, 2007)