On Thursday, 6 February, New Zealand celebrates its national day, Waitangi Day. It is the day we honour the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi and reflect on its importance in shaping our country. It is the day we celebrate our history, culture and the journey to create our nation. The treaty is one of the founding documents of New Zealand. It was signed in 1840 by representatives of the British Crown and more than 500 Māori chiefs on behalf of their tribes.
Waitangi Day also provides an opportunity to reflect on the relationship between Thailand and New Zealand - two partners that enjoy a friendly and cooperative relationship, marked by trade, tourism, education and regional security.
2024 was a reminder of the importance of this relationship, signified by the commitment to elevate it to a strategic partnership.
The year was marked by regular high-level meetings. It began with the visit to Thailand of New Zealand Prime Minister, Rt Hon Christopher Luxon. Later in the year, New Zealand’s Foreign Minister, Rt Hon Winston Peters, visited Thailand, and the year concluded with meetings in New Zealand between the Thailand and New Zealand Foreign Ministers.
Two-way trade between our countries has more than tripled in the 20 years since the New Zealand Thailand Closer Economic Partnership has been in place. 2024 was another strong year, and from 1 January 2025 the last of the tariffs between our countries were removed, which will lead to further growth.
Both countries are popular tourist destinations for each other. Thailand attracts many New Zealanders with its tropical beaches, culture and cuisine. New Zealand is known for its scenic landscapes, outdoor activities and adventure tourism, which draw Thai visitors. We hope that 2025 will see the return of direct flights between Thailand and New Zealand to encourage even stronger growth.
Thousands of Thai students are studying in New Zealand, benefiting from our high-quality education system. Similarly, New Zealanders also travel to Thailand for short-term studies and cultural exchanges.
Both countries also share common values related to human rights and democratic governance. This strengthens our people-to-people connections.
Both countries are committed to promoting peace and security in the Asia-Pacific region. We work together in multilateral organisations such as the United Nations and the ASEAN Regional Forum.
As we commemorate Waitangi Day, we reflect on the lessons it imparts — lessons of unity, equality and mutual respect.
So let us embrace this opportunity to acknowledge and deepen existing friendships and forge new ones.
Jonathan Kings
Ambassador to Thailand
