New Zealand Welcomes Vietnam’s Top Leader With Traditional Maori Ceremony
New Zealand rolled out the red carpet for Tô Lâm, Vietnam’s General Secretary and President, in a ceremony that showcased the nation’s rich Maori heritage on August 13, 2023. The event in Auckland demonstrated not only traditional hospitality but also the strengthening ties between Vietnam and New Zealand.
Traditional Maori Welcome
The welcoming ceremony began with a breathtaking Maori warrior dance led by Dame Cindy Kiro, the Governor-General of New Zealand. The traditional ritual included a “hongi,” a Maori greeting in which participants press noses, symbolizing the sharing of breath and life between hosts and guests. This intimate gesture is a vital part of Maori tradition, embodying themes of unity and welcome.
As part of the ceremony, a Maori warrior performed a captivating display while holding a weapon, symbolizing trust and goodwill. The warrior then placed a wooden dagger on the ground before Tô Lâm, who accepted it respectfully and carried it throughout the event, indicative of the strong bond being forged between the two nations.
Following the “hongi,” the Maori elders continued to showcase a series of traditional dances, expressing their joy in welcoming Tô Lâm and highlighting the cultural ties between Vietnam and New Zealand.
Official State Reception
Following the traditional welcome, a formal reception took place where Dame Cindy Kiro greeted Tô Lâm officially. This part of the event was marked by a military honor guard and further ceremonial protocols that emphasized the esteem in which the Vietnamese leader is held.
During the official reception, Tô Lâm engaged in discussions with New Zealand’s leadership, including Prime Minister Christopher Luxon. The discussions aimed to enhance diplomatic ties and explore potential collaborations between the two nations.
Strengthening Bilateral Relations
Vietnam and New Zealand established diplomatic relations on June 19, 1975, and in February 2025 are expected to elevate their partnership to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. This upgrade reflects the growing importance of the bilateral relationship.
Trade figures bolster the narrative of an ever-growing economic partnership, with a reported total trade turnover between the two nations amounting to $1.5 billion in 2025, according to Vietnam’s customs data. Currently, Vietnam ranks as the 12th largest trade partner for New Zealand, while New Zealand is the 41st for Vietnam.
The Vietnamese community in New Zealand is a vibrant testament to these connections, comprising approximately 14,000 individuals. Among them, 8,000 are long-term expatriates, primarily residing in major cities including Auckland, Christchurch, and Wellington.
The visit of Tô Lâm symbolizes not only a diplomatic meeting but also an understanding of shared cultures and economic interests, promising to pave the way for future collaboration.
In summary, the ceremonial welcome and subsequent discussions emphasize a commitment to strengthening the strategic partnership between Vietnam and New Zealand, highlighting a deep respect for cultural traditions and mutual cooperation.
