This partnership is rooted in history. The village of Lutjegast, part of Westerkwartier, is the birthplace of Abel Tasman, the Dutch explorer after whom the Tasman District is named. What began with early encounters in 1642 has evolved into a modern relationship built on friendship, mutual respect and shared ambitions.

The delegation, led by Mayor Ard van der Tuuk and joined by his advisor Jochem Pennekamp and former Dutch Ambassador Rob Zaagman, engaged in a wide-ranging programme across the region. Highlights included a traditional pōwhiri at Onetahua Marae in Golden Bay, visits to the Abel Tasman Monument and Golden Bay Museum, and meetings with local organisations and businesses. Discussions focused on areas of shared interest such as water management, cultural engagement, security and civil defence, sustainable development, education and economic cooperation. The delegation was guided by former mayor of Tasman District Richard Kempthorne and also visited the Cawthron Institute Aquaculture Centre and connected with regional stakeholders, including Mayor Tim King and local government, the Chamber of Commerce and education providers.

Building on long standing relationships and a special reconcilliation visit in in 2017, this visit marks an important step towards moving forward on the cooperation. With strong historical ties as a foundation, both regions are now looking ahead and creating new opportunities for exchange and partnership between the north of the Netherlands and the top of New Zealand’s South Island.

For more information on the historic links between New Zealand and the Netherlands, see the website of the Abel Tasman Museum in Lutjegast: Home - Abel Tasman museum