For three decades, the Asia New Zealand Foundation has been dedicated to equipping New Zealanders with the tools, experiences and insights to engage confidently and capably with Asia.
From sending entrepreneurs to regional summits in Asia to hosting Asian arts curators in Aotearoa, the Foundation acts as a key bridge between cultures, economies, and people. We caught up with the Foundation to discuss its work across sectors, and what they are doing to support impactful experiences, foster people-to-people links, and share knowledge that informs engagement with the region.
Building Capability and Understanding
The Foundation’s programme portfolio spans arts, business, entrepreneurship, leadership, media, research, Track II diplomacy, and sports. This includes two-way delegations, cultural exchanges, and long-standing research outputs like the
Perceptions of Asia and Asian Peoples report - now in its 28th year.
This year, as part of the Foundations 30th anniversary, they shared longitudinal data from the report to highlight how views have shifted over time. It is a milestone for Foundation and an opportunity to reflect and grow.
Programmes are designed to offer immersive experiences and meaningful insights. A recent sports delegation to Asia exemplifies the Foundation’s evolving strategy. It was a chance to engage with cultural nuances that could inform how participants approach their work back home, with the aim to promote genuine collaboration.
A Strategic Shift Towards Insights
While the Foundation is well known for its experience-driven initiatives, there is now a deliberate focus on sharing thought leadership and actionable insights.
To support this shift, they are engaging with subject matter experts and content writers to enhance the
Asia in Focus platform on their website. The Foundation is building out more tools for their stakeholders, from the public sector to private business, to navigate and understand Asia.
Strengthening Ties With India
In March 2025, the Asia New Zealand Foundation's leadership, including Chief Executive
Suzannah Jessep and senior management, participated in a significant trade delegation to India.
This delegation, led by Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, was the largest ever from New Zealand, comprising influential individuals, business leaders including prominent members of the Indian-New Zealand community.
The visit marked the first time in several years that a New Zealand Prime Minister had visited India, aiming to deepen bilateral relations and explore the potential for a Free Trade Agreement between the two nations.
The Foundation's involvement underscored its commitment to fostering strong people to people connections between New Zealand and India, aligning with its broader mission of enhancing New Zealand's engagement with Asia.
Resilience in Uncertain Times
Like many in the not-for-profit space, the Foundation is monitoring the implications of Budget 2025 closely. As a lean organisation focused on delivering high impact, they have aligned their operational planning to reflect that, doing more with what they have.
With anniversaries such as the 50th ASEAN–New Zealand relations coinciding with their own 30-year milestone, the Foundation is seeing momentum and renewed interest in strengthening regional partnerships.
A Word on Collaboration
The Foundation’s finance team manages the day-to-day relationship with the Moore Markhams team, including Partner
Michael Rania, the Appointed Auditor on behalf of the Auditor-General, and recognises the importance of collaborating with trusted advisors.
Looking Ahead
For New Zealanders curious about engaging with Asia, it is vital for New Zealand’s future. Asia is a vibrant, fast-growing region. The Foundation is committed to supporting New Zealanders and equipping them to be part of that story.