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Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has just finished a successful three-day visit to Japan, where he strengthened political relationships and boosted business links.
Luxon’s visit culminated in a bilateral meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio followed by a state dinner.
“It was important for me to meet Prime Minister Kishida in person early in my term,” Luxon says.
He launched a new Tourism New Zealand campaign, promoted rugby connections and witnessed his delegation closing business deals.
Tourism New Zealand’s campaign, aimed at growing desire for destination New Zealand in Japan, demonstrates New Zealand is a destination that can provide high-value, once-in-a-lifetime experiences – multiple times over during a trip here.
“New Zealand can deliver an exceptionally fun and exciting holiday – our research shows this is important to Japanese visitors,” says Tourism New Zealand chief executive Rene de Monchy.
It includes three short films showcasing relaxing hot pools in Rotorua, our starry night sky in Tekapo and New Zealand’s delicious food and wine in Central Otago. These represent iconic experiences and strong motivational drivers for Japanese consumers. Each film features authentic locals delivering a warm, inviting simple message to showcase how welcoming and friendly Kiwis are.
Pre-COVID, Japan was New Zealand’s fifth largest international visitor market, but has now dropped to 10th, making up 1.3 per cent of total arrivals.
A significant deal was also concluded with Japanese company Toda Corporation, which will invest in Queenstown’s luxury hotel industry, via Auckland-based Coherent Hotel Limited.
“Tourism is an important source of jobs for New Zealand and the investment by Toda Corporation is very welcome,” Luxon says.
“I am pleased the business delegation accompanying me to Japan was able to jump on
this opportunity to advance their businesses.
“Our visit also showcased New Zealand as a partner in new and emerging fields, such as renewable energy, science and innovation, and space.
“The relationships built during this visit will deliver for New Zealand. I was struck by the alignment of New Zealand and Japan’s interests, as we look to deliver stability and prosperity for our countries.
“We concluded the Information Security Agreement, which will allow our countries to share a wider range of information with each other.
“We are also increasing our defence cooperation, with HMNZS Aotearoa visiting Japan in August 2024. There will also be further cooperation with Japan and others to detect and deter North Korea’s evasion of United Nations sanctions.”
During the visit, Luxon also announced State Minister for Foreign Affairs Tsuji Kiyoto as the next New Zealand Prime Minister’s Fellow.
“I look forward to welcoming Minister Tsuji to New Zealand to build closer connections between our two countries and showcase all that New Zealand has to offer,” says Luxon.
