New Zealand minister eyes closer ties with China via tourism

WELLINGTON -- New Zealand Tourism Minister Kelvin Davis will travel to China on Friday to deepen the 2019 China-New Zealand Year of Tourism and the bilateral ties.

"The 2019 China-New Zealand Year of Tourism showcases our flourishing people-to-people connections, offers opportunities to foster new relationships and strengthen current ones," Davis said in a statement on Thursday.

More Chinese visitors are holidaying in New Zealand to enjoy the country's beautiful natural environment and unique cultural offerings, Davis said.

The visit, built on the success of the opening ceremony of the Year of Tourism held in March, will see Davis meet with his Chinese counterpart Luo Shugang, other political leaders and senior tourism officials in China's Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou, to discuss future tourism cooperation opportunities.

"I am looking forward to meeting innovative Chinese and New Zealand companies who are at the forefront of linkages between our two countries," he said.

The minister said he also wants to learn more about China and its people during this visit, so that New Zealand can provide visitors with a great experience, and broaden understanding of China's deep and fascinating culture.