Building on the success of the inaugural 2015 event, the second New Zealand-China Mayoral Forum was held in Wellington in December 2017. As a preferred partner for LGNZ, Eastern Bridge played an expanded role in providing strategic advice, training, and on-the-ground support.
The second New Zealand-China Mayoral Forum was held in Wellington in December 2017, continuing the momentum from the successful inaugural forum in Xiamen two years prior. The event brought together ten mayors and vice-mayors from China and their New Zealand counterparts to discuss opportunities for cooperation in tourism, education, and primary industries, with a focus on sustainable economic development.
The forum culminated in the signing of the Wellington Declaration, reaffirming the commitment of both sides to strengthening sub-national ties. A key component of the event was a dedicated business matching session, providing a platform for New Zealand businesses to connect directly with potential investors and partners from China.
“It is particularly difficult for small councils with limited resourcing… one of the reasons to bring them all together is to amortise the cost across the sector. You’ve got to build trust, you’ve got to build friendship, you’ve got to be in some ways giving before you get.” — Dave Cull, President of Local Government New Zealand (2017)
Eastern Bridge: A Preferred Partner for LGNZ
Following our successful support for clients at the 2015 forum, Eastern Bridge was engaged by Local Government New Zealand (LGNZ) as a preferred partner for the 2017 event. Our role expanded significantly, reflecting a growing need for specialised expertise in navigating the NZ-China relationship.
We provided a comprehensive suite of services to prepare councils and businesses for the forum. This included strategic planning sessions, due diligence on potential partners, and the development of bilingual communications materials. A key innovation for this forum was the creation of online video training modules, allowing participants to prepare for the event at their own pace.
| Eastern Bridge Support Service (2017 Forum) | Description |
|---|---|
| Strategic Planning | Working with LGNZ to align the forum’s objectives with regional development goals. |
| Online Video Training | Delivering scalable, pre-forum training modules for all participating councils on cultural etiquette and engagement strategies. |
| Bilingual Communications | Developing bilingual press releases, marketing collateral, and presentations for councils and businesses. |
| Commercial Workshops | Running targeted workshops for business delegates on pitching to Chinese investors and understanding the market. |
| On-the-Ground Support | Providing interpreting and facilitation services during the forum events and business matching sessions in Wellington. |
Building on Success
The 2017 forum demonstrated the value of a consistent, long-term approach to building sub-national relationships. By providing councils with the tools and knowledge to engage effectively, the event helped to create tangible outcomes, from new business partnerships to a deeper cultural understanding.
Eastern Bridge’s role as a preferred partner highlighted the importance of professional, culturally-aware support in making these high-level forums a success. Our team was proud to contribute to this key event in the NZ-China relationship.
More News
- Second NZ-China Mayoral Forum Deepens Local Government Ties in Wellington 10 March 2026 – Building on the success of the inaugural 2015 event, the second New Zealand-China Mayoral Forum was held in Wellington in……
- First 2026 Volunteer Cohort Set to Depart for China as Programme Expands 10 March 2026 – What began as the Jiangxi–Bay of Plenty volunteer programme in 2024 has rapidly grown into a nationwide initiative, with 130……
- Trade Mission to Jiangxi 2026 10 March 2026 – An upcoming business delegation to Jiangxi Province will connect companies from the Eastern Bay of Plenty and South Waikato with……
Latest Insights
- Migrant Perceptions Survey 2025: Insights into the Migrant Experience 10 March 2026 – The 2025 Migrant Perception Survey gathers insights from migrants across New Zealand to better understand their experiences, challenges, and contributions……
- The Importance of Sister Cities 10 March 2026 – Sister city relationships help communities build lasting international friendships and cooperation. They create opportunities for cultural exchange, student programmes, business……
- New Zealand – China Education Partnerships 10 March 2026 – Education partnerships between New Zealand and China will continue to grow as schools and institutions seek deeper collaboration. Student exchanges,……
Case Studies
- Study holidays – a Driver of Economic Development 10 March 2026 – Study holiday programmes bring international students into regional communities for short-term educational and cultural experiences. These programmes generate income for……
- Authentic Cultural Tour Programme 10 March 2026 – Eastern Bridge partnered with Kutarere Marae and Te Ūpokorehe hapū to co-design a seven-day cultural tourism programme in the Eastern……
- Selling Premium Wine in China 10 March 2026 – Successfully selling wine in international markets requires more than a quality product — it demands genuine respect for local culture……
Talk to us. If you would like help with sister cities and international relationships, find out more or get in touch.