International city partners

Wellington has 14 city-to-city relationships around the world created to strengthen our cultural, educational and business connections.

The relationships with our international city partners enables Wellington City to form networks, engage in dialogue with counterparts and encourage collaboration and cooperation on important issues.

Types of relationships

Our global city partnerships are diverse, dynamic and promote social and economic growth for both cities.

Our city-to-city relationships fall into four categories, depending on the origin of the relationship, what the relationship focuses on and the level of involvement.

  • Sister city – a formal, long-term relationship based on diverse links between two cities which could include cultural, education and business connections
  • Friendly city – an informal partnership that is limited in scope but still promotes collaboration and cooperation between two cities
  • Partner city – a relationship based on specific projects or initiatives with cities which share interests with Wellington
  • Historical sister city – a relationship based on historic or cultural ties, often dating back to an event in history that has significant meaning to both cities.

Beijing, China

The relationship between the two capital cities started in 1994, and is focused on education, cultural and economic cooperation.

Çanakkale, Türkiye

The relationship with Çanakkale was established to commemorate World War I and the Gallipoli Campaign.

Canberra, Australia

As capital cities in Australasia and sharing strong economies, tourism and creative industries, Wellington and Canberra are natural trading partners.

Hania, Greece

Wellington’s sister city relationship with Hania recognises Wellington’s large and dynamic Greek and Cretan communities.

Hanoi, Viet Nam

Wellington’s relationship with Hanoi focuses on cooperation in the areas of education, resilience, cultural exchanges and economic development.

Harrogate, England

Our relationship with Harrogate began in 1953 and recognises the bonds formed since WW2.

Ramallah, Palestine

Wellington and Ramallah have taken the first steps towards becoming friendly cities.

Sakai, Japan

Our only sister city in Japan, Wellington’s positive relationship with Sakai has a wide range of areas of cooperation and exchange.

Seoul, South Korea

Wellington and Seoul are cities that are connected through the creative economy and film industries.

Sydney, Australia

An important trans-Tasman partner, our sister city relationship with Sydney is focused on trade, business and tourism connections.

Taipei, Taiwan

In recent years, Wellington has developed strong ties with Taipei, especially related to creating liveable, smart cities.

Tianjin, China

The partnership is focused on fostering the sharing of scientific, technical and policy expertise in the handling of earthquakes.

Xiamen, China

The Wellington Xiamen sister city relationship has a strong focus on culture and education cooperation and collaboration.

Zhejiang Province, China

A regional project, aimed at increasing opportunities for trade, study and cultural exchange.