Sister cities

Sister cities have established direct friendly relations to strengthen mutual understanding, cooperation and ties.

Beijing, China

In 1994 Deng Lin, the daughter of Chinese President Deng Xiaoping, visited Wellington and 'fell in love’ with the city.

Sakai, Japan

The idea for this relationship was originally promoted by the Japanese Ambassador to New Zealand, Takeo Iguchi.

Sydney, Australia

A sister city relationship between Wellington and Sydney was originally formed in September 1983.

Xiamen, China

A sister city relationship between Wellington and Xiamen was formed in June 1987.

Canberra, Australia

Canberra is Wellington’s newest sister city relationship.

Historical sister cities

A historical sister city relationship is one based on past or ceremonial links. Wellington has three historical sister city relationships.