By NEW ZEALAND AMBASSADOR TO THE PHILIPPINES DR. CATHERINE MCINTOSH
Today, Feb. 6, New Zealanders – or “Kiwis” – across the world commemorate Waitangi Day. A historic day that defines our identity as a nation, Waitangi Day marks the signing of TeTiriti o Waitangi (The Treaty of Waitangi) in 1840. As the founding document that established Aotearoa New Zealand, it represents the living partnership between Māori – the indigenous people of New Zealand – and the Crown.
As New Zealand reflects on our unique journey, I reflect on another flourishing partnership – that of New Zealand and the Philippines. The past year has been nothing short of extraordinary. Welcoming Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Deputy Prime Minister Winston Peters within months of each other to the Philippines marked a turning point in our relationship. We are now moving toward a comprehensive partnership – an ambitious step for a stronger and more dynamic future together.
Trade that transforms
We have our sights set on a bold goal: increase two-way trade by 50 percent by 2030. The Philippines is moving up the ranks of New Zealand’s key trading partners, supported by a post-pandemic boost in trade in services and travel and facilitated by our free trade agreements, the ASEAN Australia New Zealand Free Trade Area (AANZFTA) and the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP). We are identifying further opportunities to deliver our shared trade ambitions – particularly through investment in agriculture, geothermal energy, and technology.
Security through trust and teamwork
New Zealand is stepping up efforts with the Philippines to enhance our defense arrangements. Tangible steps included the signing of the Mutual Logistics Support Arrangement in June 2024, and, just last month, the launch of negotiations for a Status of Visiting Forces Agreement (SOVFA). New Zealand’s participation in the September Maritime Cooperation Activity (MCA) alongside the Philippines, Australia, Japan and the US, and our other operations in the region, was evidence of our commitment to supporting the rule of international law and regional stability – values New Zealand the Philippines collectively share.
Climate action, side by side
When it comes to climate action and sustainability, New Zealand and the Philippines are both committed to change. We have a long history of working side by side in geothermal energy, harnessing the earth’s power to create a cleaner future. Our Joint Declaration on Climate Cooperation last year at COP29 in Baku was evidence of our commitment to acting decisively.
In the same vein, as part of this year’s commemoration of 50 years of New Zealand-ASEAN relations, we have provided ₱8 million to the ASEAN Center for Biodiversity – an investment in conservation and community. And we continue to recognize the Philippines as one of the most vulnerable countries to natural disasters through our support for the Philippine Red Cross and typhoon relief efforts.
He aha temeanui tea o? He tangata he tangata, he tangata! (What is the most important thing in the world? It is people, it is people, it is people!)
The heart of our relationship is found in the people who breathe life into it. This year, 16 remarkable Filipino scholars will venture to New Zealand under the Maanaki New Zealand Scholarship Programme and complete Post-Graduate Studies at New Zealand’s universities. Through the Asia New Zealand Foundation’s Young Business Leaders Initiative, Kiwi designers made a statement during the 2024 Manila International Fashion Week as they showcased stunning pieces that reflect on our culture. Our basketball connections scored slam dunks for bilateral ties when the Tall Blacks faced Gilas Pilipinas, a thrilling match.
Back in New Zealand, the Filipino diaspora is soaring, with more than 100,000 now calling New Zealand home. Tagalog can be heard on streets, from Auckland in the north to Invercargill in the far south. Filipinos play a critical role in supporting New Zealand to thrive, supporting our dairy and construction industries and in our healthcare sector. We even have two Filipino MPs in our parliament – a world first!
Discovering the Philippines, one adventure at a time
Seeing our cultural connection has been my source of motivation and innovation. Nearly a year into my role as New Zealand’s Ambassador to the Philippines, I am captivated by the magic of this country and its people. I have tried my hand at speaking Filipino, experienced the stunning landscapes of Anilao and Isabela, and even navigated the vibrant maze of Divisoria in search of the perfect Filipiniana. I am struck by the warmth, resilience, and vibrancy of the Pinoy spirit.
My recent trip to Mindanao stands out as a defining moment in my first year, where New Zealand’s international development program has had a long-standing focus. I’m proud to see how their New Zealand experiences have shaped so many people from this region. I am hopeful this will continue through our latest flagship development program, I-LEAD, that will connect indigenous women with Māori to share lessons on governance of ancestral domains.
60 years and counting: The road ahead
As we approach the 60th anniversary of our diplomatic relations in 2026, the horizon glows with promise. From advancing geothermal projects to trailblazing new development initiatives to support indigenous women, our partnership is proof that when two nations come together with purpose and heart, extraordinary things happen. He waka eke noa – we are on this journey together. As we work towards a Comprehensive Partnership in 2026, here’s to the milestone we have reached and the boundless horizons that await!
(Dr. Catherine McIntosh is the New Zealand Ambassador to the Philippines. Follow her on social media @NZAmbPH on X (formerly Twitter).