Cultural Exchange Programmes
Eastern Bridge has been facilitating exchanges since 2014, acting as an outsourced foreign affairs office for local councils and organizations. We work with local governments, iwi, and community groups to bring exchanges to life—whether it’s sports, education, culture, governance, or business.
Many of New Zealand’s 200+ sister city and friendship city relationships started with simple cultural or educational exchanges. Over time, these interpersonal connections evolved into economic partnerships, leading to trade agreements, investment, and business collaborations. Just like in business, trust and friendship come first—and that trust is built through meaningful exchange.
Some of the exchanges that we have facilitated:
- Sports exchanges – NZ rugby teams visiting China, basketball tournaments with Asian teams.
- School & youth exchanges – Study abroad opportunities, reciprocal school visits.
- Cultural & art exchanges – Museum partnerships, artist-in-residence programs, digital art showcases.
- Government & policy exchanges – Local government staff learning from their counterparts overseas.
- Media tours & journalism exchanges – Showcasing NZ stories to international audiences.
Why Exchanges Matter
International exchanges are more than just visits—they are the foundation of strong, lasting relationships between communities across the world.
Whether part of a formal sister city agreement or an informal partnership, exchanges foster mutual understanding, friendship, and trust, creating pathways for education, culture, business, and investment.
Many of New Zealand’s 200+ sister city and friendship city relationships started with simple cultural or educational exchanges.
Over time, these interpersonal connections evolved into economic partnerships, leading to trade agreements, investment, and business collaborations.
Just like in business, trust and friendship come first—and that trust is built through meaningful exchange.
Strengthen Relationships
New Zealand maintains over 200 sister city and friendship city relationships, many initiated through cultural or educational exchanges
Cultural Understanding
Cultural understanding between countries is essential for fostering peace, cooperation, and economic growth.
Boosting Tourism
Engaging local communities in tourism activities that highlight their cultural heritage fosters cultural exchange, creates job opportunities, and supports local economies.