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The Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to New Zealand His Excellency Dr Wang Xiaolong has made his first official visit to Marlborough, with the trip focused on strengthening regional ties across wine, tourism and education.
The ambassador was hosted by Marlborough mayor Nadine Taylor, with the visit building on the region’s sister relationship with Ningxia, established in 2017.
Strengthening international connections
Nadine says the visit reflects Marlborough’s outward-looking approach as an exporting region.
“As an exporting region it is important Marlborough is outward looking and internationally connected. Visits like this are a wonderful opportunity to build on our existing relationships and strengthen our wine, tourism, people and education connections with China.”
Focus on wine sector
Marlborough District Council group manager strategic management Neil Henry says the visit included a focus on the region’s wine industry.
“It provided a chance to update him on the success of the Marlborough wine region partnership in wine consultancy, wine technology and wine education.”
The ambassador’s programme included a winery visit and tasting, with Saint Clair Family Estate senior winemaker Kyle Thompson among those hosting.
Delegation visit
The delegation also included He Ying, alongside officials from the Chinese Embassy in Wellington and Consulate in Christchurch.
The visit highlights the role of international relationships in supporting regional tourism, trade and education links, particularly as destinations look to rebuild connections with key overseas markets.
