When people think of New Zealand, what usually comes to mind? Breathtaking landscapes? The home of The Lord of the Rings? The traditional Maori war dance Haka?

While all these are true, there’s a lot more to Aotearoa (the Maori term for New Zealand meaning “Land of the Long White Cloud”) especially in its growing relationship with the Philippines.

Earlier this week, New Zealand Ambassador to the Philippines Dr. Catherine McIntosh hosted a reception celebrating Waitangi Day. Officially celebrated every February 6, the New Zealand holiday marks the 1840 signing of the Treaty of Waitangi which laid the foundation for the nation’s bicultural identity.

There, Ambassador McIntosh shared five things about the strong and evolving ties between the two countries:

1. Filipinos are making history in New Zealand’s Parliament

The Filipino community in New Zealand has grown to over 100,000 people, making it the fastest-growing ethnic group in the country. Two Filipinos, Paulo Garcia and Francisco Hernandez, are even serving in the New Zealand Parliament.

Filipinos play a vital role in healthcare, construction, and agriculture—particularly in New Zealand’s dairy industry. As the ambassador puts it: “They’re making contributions to our society, whether it be healthcare, construction, or even dairy farms. So, their skills are so valuable to our economy, but they’re also so valuable to our society.”

She also mentioned the vibrant exchanges of culture— New Zealand fashion designers at Manila International Fashion Week and the basketball match between Tall Blacks and Gilas Pilipinas.

“These connections remind us that diplomacy isn’t just about governments — it’s about people, about friendships that transcend borders,” she said.

2. PH-NZ trade aims for a 50% boost by 2030

New Zealand and the Philippines are ramping up their trade relations. According to NZ’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, in the year leading to March 2023, total bilateral trade hit NZD 1.36 billion (PHP 46.5 billion)—with New Zealand exporting dairy, meat, and wood while importing electronics, coconut products, and furniture from the Philippines.

Leaders Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. have set an ambitious target to increase two-way trade by 50% by 2030—a big win for both economies. Among the exciting trade projects? Bringing high-quality Philippine mangoes to New Zealand.

3. A comprehensive partnership is coming in 2026

By 2026, which will mark the two countries’ 60th year of diplomatic relationship, New Zealand and the Philippines will elevate their relations to a Comprehensive Partnership, deepening cooperation across four major pillars: political ties, trade and climate action, defense cooperation, and people-to-people connections.

According to Ambassador McIntosh, this agreement will serve as a “road map that will outline cooperation with Philippine counterparts,” ensuring stronger diplomatic and economic ties between the two nations.

4. Filipinos can study in New Zealand for free. Here’s how:

For postgraduate studies starting in early 2026, the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships are now open for applications until February 28, 2025.

New Zealand’s education system is world-class, and its multicultural society warmly welcomes Filipinos. As Ambassador McIntosh said: “The Maori culture that we shared a bit tonight—music, family, and values—those are things we share [in common]. So, New Zealand is very welcoming, multicultural, and so delighted to have the Filipino community.”

5. Defense and climate cooperation are a top priority

New Zealand is strengthening defense ties with the Philippines to support a peaceful Indo-Pacific region. In September 2023, New Zealand joined the Philippines, Australia, Japan, and the US in a Maritime Cooperation Activity, and both countries are moving toward a Status of Visiting Forces Agreement (SVFA).

On climate action, New Zealand and the Philippines share a long history of working together on geothermal energy. At COP29 in Baku, New Zealand pledged new bilateral action with the Philippines’ Environment Secretary Yulo-Loyzaga to combat climate change.

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From trade and education to climate action and defense, the Philippines and New Zealand’s relationship is stronger than ever. New Zealand’s Waitangi Day was a moment to reflect on its history and partnerships, as well as a reminder of the shared values and deepening connections between the two nations.

Would you ever consider studying, working, or doing business in New Zealand?