The 2026 Tauranga Mayoral Delegation to Yantai, China, marked a significant milestone in the 40-year sister city relationship between the two cities and provided an important platform for advancing trade, investment, and economic development objectives. Through a series of meetings with government leaders, businesses, educational institutions, and industry representatives, the delegation reinforced Tauranga’s position as an outward-looking city committed to building international partnerships that support long-term prosperity.  

Yantai is one of China’s coastal cities experiencing strong economic growth and a major centre for manufacturing, agriculture, food production, technology, and international trade. Maintaining strong relationships with influential partners in cities such as Yantai provides Tauranga with valuable opportunities to increase its international profile, strengthen business networks, and identify potential pathways for future economic growth. The delegation demonstrated that sister city relationships can serve as practical platforms for economic engagement rather than simply ceremonial exchanges.  

A key outcome of the visit was the strengthening of high-level relationships with Yantai municipal leaders and agencies. These connections provide access to decision-makers and influential business networks that can be leveraged to support Tauranga businesses seeking opportunities in China. The delegation also created opportunities to promote Tauranga as a destination for investment. Presentations and engagement activities highlighted Tauranga’s strong economic growth, strategic location, export capabilities, quality of life, and emerging opportunities across sectors such as manufacturing, agriculture, horticulture, tourism, education, and logistics.  

The Tauranga delegation also promoted Tauranga as a high-quality destination for Chinese international students. 

Anne Young, Senior Manager International at the University of Waikato said “during meetings with education authorities, schools, universities, and government representatives, the delegation showcased Tauranga’s strengths as a safe, welcoming, and globally connected city offering excellent educational opportunities, lifestyle benefits and potential job pathways.”

The visit reinforced long-standing education partnerships between Tauranga and Yantai, strengthened institutional relationships, and raised awareness of study pathways available through Tauranga’s schools, tertiary providers, and English language programmes. These engagements supported efforts to grow international student enrolments and further strengthen educational links between the two cities. Importantly, the delegation reinforced the role of international relationships in supporting economic resilience and diversification.

Tauranga also offers value to its Yantai partners through connections into New Zealand’s business, education and investment networks. With strengths across horticulture, food production, logistics, education and a globally connected port, the Western Bay of Plenty provides opportunities for Yantai businesses and institutions to explore partnerships, knowledge exchange and new market connections. This reciprocity has helped sustain the sister-city relationship for four decades and gives both cities a strong foundation for future collaboration.

“In an increasingly competitive global environment, access to trusted international networks can help local businesses explore new markets, attract investment, gain market intelligence, and establish strategic partnerships. The longstanding relationship with Yantai provides Tauranga with a unique platform from which to pursue these opportunities” says Priority One General Manager, Greg Simmonds.  

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