Hutt City hi-tech showcased to Zhejiang, China
Friday 7 September 2012, 5:07PM
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Hutt City businesses showcased hi-tech manufacturing, new technology and local attractions to members of a 180-strong trade mission from the Zhejiang Province in China.
Led by Zhejiang Governor Mr Xia Baolong, it is the biggest delegation to be hosted in the Wellington Region.
Lower Hutt Mayor Ray Wallace said the delegation was impressed with the strong links established by Lower Hutt businesses with China and the quality of locally produced products.
Pictured above, Mayor Ray Wallace met Mr Han Jie, Deputy Director General of the Zhejiang Province Department of Commerce, at Boulcott’s Heritage Farm Golf Club.
Hutt City hosted visits to Fraser Engineering, Pertronic Industries and Asure Quality. Other businesses in the city were provided with an opportunity to meet members of the delegation.
Mayor Wallace signed a regional economic partnership agreement with the Zhejiang Province along with Mayor Celia Wade-Brown, Porirua Mayor Nick Leggett, Kapiti Mayor Jenny Rowan and Mr Xia Baolong. He says the agreement opens the door to growth and prosperity.
“Signing the Memorandum of Cooperation will increase opportunities for trade, study and mutual understanding of our cities, and is a significant event that can create new opportunities for the region,” he says.
“In the longer term this will be a boost to employment opportunities and generate important revenue for the region.”
A highlight for the delegation was visiting the Waiwehtu Wharewaka and understanding more about our Maori culture.
Zhejiang Radio and Television Group are also producing a documentary on the region – most notably how NZ was founded by early settlers as shown at the Petone Settlers Museum. Zhejiang Television is broadcast throughout China with a potential reach of 900 million people an in Chinese / English across 56 countries.