On July 25, Ambassador Wang Xiaolong attended a symposium on the spirit of Rewi Alley and a themed photo exhibition, jointly hosted by the Chinese Embassy and Consulates-General in New Zealand and the New Zealand China Friendship Society.

Consul-General in Auckland Chen Shijie, Consul-General in Christchurch He Ying, Director of the China Coal Mine Art Troupe Jin Dong, Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown, relatives of Rewi Alley, and nearly 70 representatives from political, business, overseas Chinese community, media and youth circles attended the event.

Ambassador Wang spoke highly of Rewi Alley's important contributions to China's liberation and national development, stating that the spirit of Alley remains ever fresh and stands as a valuable asset of China-New Zealand friendship. Next year marks the 100th anniversary of Alley's arrival in China, and both sides will use this milestone as an opportunity to deepen exchanges and cooperation across all fields, propelling China-New Zealand friendship to new heights.

Other guests in attendance likewise reflected, from their own experiences and perspectives, on Alley's moving deeds and noble character, expressing their commitment to carrying forward his spirit and continuing the friendship between New Zealand and China.

Alongside the symposium, the "China and Rewi Alley in 1979" photo exhibition was also held that day. Through a series of precious images being shown to the public for the first time, the exhibition vividly recreated Alley's unforgettable years in China. Guests lingered before the photographs, absorbed in appreciation and reluctant to leave.