Celebrating Success: the First European Union – New Zealand Business Summit

The day saw nearly 500 business and political leaders from across Europe and New Zealand come together to explore new opportunities in: agriculture and agritech, infrastructure and investment, clean tech and renewables, deep technology and AI, aerospace and defence, sustainability, and the Māori economy.

Opened by Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, the Summit featured addresses from: European Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security Maroš Šefčovič, Deputy Prime Minister David Seymour; Minister for Trade and Investment Todd McClay; Minister of Māori Development Tama Potaka; Minister for Science, Innovation and Technology Shane Reti; and Minister of Climate Change and Energy Simon Watts. Alongside there was a host of distinguished and fresh business panels on each of the key themes of the Summit. 

For the full agenda and to watch recordings of sessions, please see below.

The Summit turned the spotlight on European Union and New Zealand trade and investment since the FTA entered into force 18 months ago. In that short time, New Zealand exports to the EU have grown by NZ $2 billion, bringing total two-way trade to NZ $21.582 billion (Stats NZ data for two way trade for year ending June 2025).
 

© European Union, 2025

A Platform for Innovation and Partnership

Throughout the Summit, speakers and panellists emphasised that the European Union and New Zealand are also successful partners in innovation. From agritech and food sustainability to the bioeconomy and deep tech, the discussions showcased flourishing partnerships — built on shared values, world-class research, and technology cooperation — that drive economic growth on both sides.

The event underscored the opportunities unlocked by New Zealand’s participation in Horizon Europe, the European Union’s flagship research and innovation programme — and the world's largest innovation fund. This opens new pathways for joint collaboration and innovation.
 

Shared Commitment, Global Reach

All 27 EU Member States were represented, alongside national and European business chambers, research institutions, and hundreds of enterprises of every size. The Summit demonstrated the full strength of #TeamEurope in New Zealand — united in commitment to sustainable growth, innovation, and fair, rules-based trade.

We extend our warmest thanks to everyone who made this milestone possible:

• our partners for their support and collaboration: New Zealand Trade and Enterprise, Zespri International, BESIX Watpac, Maersk, University of Auckland, OHB, BusinessNZ, Auckland Business Chamber, and Kea Aerospace;
• all Member State embassies and business chambers for their engagement;
• and the attendees and speakers who travelled from across Europe, New Zealand, and beyond to share insights, build partnerships, and shape the future of the EU–NZ relationship.
   

© European Union, 2025

Making Waves in the Media

The Summit and Commissioner’s visit was amplified across New Zealand media — covered on national television, radio, and in major print and online outlets, reflecting growing public and business interest in Europe’s partnership with New Zealand.
 

📸 Explore the highlights: View the full photo gallery →
 

With momentum strong and relationships deepening, the European Union and New Zealand are already looking ahead. The discussions in Auckland have laid the groundwork for future cooperation and new commercial opportunities.

We look forward to building on this momentum. Stay in touch and be part of the journey as we take these new opportunities forward — together.

#StrongerTogether #EUNZTrade
 

Summit Agenda & Video Catch Up