Thailand and New Zealand Elevate Ties to Strategic Partnership

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul arrived at the New Zealand Governor-General's residence in Wellington on August 21, 2026, to participate in a formal reception conducted according to Maori traditions. The warm and friendly atmosphere reflected the long-standing friendship between Thailand and New Zealand, with 2026 marking 70 years of diplomatic relations. Maori elders and warriors welcomed the Prime Minister with the traditional hongi nose greeting before proceeding to formal ceremonies including the wero challenge, where the Prime Minister picked up a carved object to demonstrate peaceful intentions, and the karanga welcome ritual followed by a haka performance.

After the outdoor ceremony, Prime Minister Anutin and his wife joined New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and his wife indoors, where the Thai and New Zealand national anthems were played and an honor guard was reviewed. The Prime Minister signed the visitor's book and exchanged gifts with his counterpart.

At 10:30 a.m., the two prime ministers held small-group talks to discuss the future direction of Thailand-New Zealand relations following the elevation to strategic partnership status. Later they conducted a full bilateral meeting at 11:00 a.m. Both leaders then held a joint press conference, with Prime Minister Anutin expressing satisfaction at making an official visit to New Zealand during the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations. He emphasized that the visit opens a new chapter in the long friendship between the two nations, and both leaders signed a joint declaration establishing a strategic partnership, representing an upgrade of bilateral relations to a higher level. The Prime Minister noted that key ministers from both countries participated in the discussions.