On Saturday, March 14, 2026, at the invitation of the Waimakariri River Festival organizers, the NZ Hubei Economic Trade Cultural Association organized a singing and dancing troupe to deliver vibrant performances in the town of Kaiapoi. Through lively artistic expression and warm interaction with local residents, the group used art as a bridge to promote cultural exchange and mutual understanding between New Zealand and China.

As the initiator and key promoter of the sister-city relationship between Waimakariri and Enshi in Hubei Province, the Association has remained committed over the years. Since 2016, except for interruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Association has visited the community annually, engaging with residents and showcasing the richness of Chinese culture.

This year marks the 10th anniversary of the sister-city relationship. At the event, Dr Yafei Zhou, President of the NZ Hubei Economic Trade Cultural Association, conveyed warm greetings and sincere best wishes from the people of Enshi to the residents of Waimakariri. He noted that the Association will continue to serve as a bridge, working to deepen economic and cultural cooperation between New Zealand and China, strengthen friendship between the two peoples, and contribute to a better shared future.