On the evening of January 15, the New Zealand China Friendship Society Inc. (NZCFS) Wellington Branch held a 2017 Chinese New Year Celebration Banquet in Wellington. Over 100 people attended the event including the Chinese Embassy's Political Counselor, Qu Guangzhou; NZCFS National President, Dave Bromwich and his wife; NZCFS Wellington Branch President, Michael Powles and his wife; MP of the National Party, Dr Yang Jian; former Asia New Zealand Foundation President Philip Burdon and his wife; New Zealand's former Ambassador to China, Tony Browne; officials from New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade and representatives from the NZCFS Wellington Branch and local Chinese community.

In his speech, Counselor Qu Guangzhou, on behalf of Ambassador Wang Lutong and the Chinese Embassy in New Zealand, expressed his gratitude towards the NZCFS for organizing the banquet to celebrate the Chinese Lunar New Year – the Year of the Rooster, and for its tireless efforts in the promotion of exchanges and cooperation between the two peoples. Counselor Qu also noted that 2017 is the 120th anniversary of the birth of New Zealand paragon, Rewi Alley, the 90th anniversary of his first visit to China and the 30th anniversary of his death. He is pleased to see that NZCFS is actively organizing a series of activities to commemorate this common friend of China and New Zealand. Moreover, 2017 is the 45th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and New Zealand, Counselor Qu believes that, through joint efforts, the two sides will continue to strengthen their friendship and cooperation, and China – New Zealand relations will surely usher in a better tomorrow.

During the banquet, Mr Burdon and Mr Bromwich delivered speeches respectively, speaking highly of the friendship between the two peoples and the development of bilateral relations. NZCFS, since its establishment, has made great contributions to the enhancement of mutual understanding and bilateral relations. In the future, NZCFS will make every effort to further advance friendly relations between the two countries, even in the case of facing potential development challenges.

Chinese knowledge quizzes and a lucky draw were held approaching the end of the banquet with active participation from the attendees. The atmosphere was convivial and pleasant.