The Australian-New Zealand Chamber of Commerce Philippines (ANZCHAM) was honored to attend the New Zealand Partners’ Night: An Evening Reception in Honour of Waitangi Day, hosted by the New Zealand Embassy in the Philippines. This annual celebration not only commemorates New Zealand’s national day but also highlights the strong and growing partnership between New Zealand and the Philippines across trade, security, climate action, and people-to-people connections.
The evening was a testament to the deep and enduring ties between our nations, as emphasized by H.E. Dr. Catherine McIntosh, New Zealand Ambassador to the Philippines, in her remarks: “The past year has been nothing short of extraordinary. It has marked a real turning point in the bilateral relationship. […] Our friendship is strong, and the road ahead is full of promise. […] It reflects the priority New Zealand is placing on the Philippines.”
New Zealand’s commitment to strengthening diplomatic, trade, and security relations with the Philippines was further reinforced by Secretary Gilberto “Gibo” Teodoro Jr. of the Department of National Defense, who acknowledged the nations’ shared vision for regional peace and cooperation. He noted: “We are in the first stages of negotiating a Status of Visiting Forces Agreement with New Zealand, and we are very thankful for the unconditional support of New Zealand.”
Climate action remains a critical pillar of the partnership. Secretary Robert EA Borje, Vice Chairperson and Executive Director of the Climate Change Commission, highlighted the importance of collaboration in addressing global environmental challenges: “This is why it’s important—partnerships that work, partnerships that are not there simply as a key result area, but partnerships that aim to transform the people. This is what we have with New Zealand.”
With nearly 60 years of diplomatic relations between New Zealand and the Philippines in 2026, the future holds even greater opportunities for growth and shared success!
Kia ora, Mabuhay, and to an enduring partnership!