New Zealand and Finland share similar views on many international issues including security, disarmament and the environment. As two small, independent democracies, we are natural partners and often share similar perspectives and priorities, particularly in the United Nations and the OECD. Finland is a member of a number of initiatives that New Zealand has instigated, including the Small Advanced Economies Initiative, the Friends of Fossil Fuel Subsidy Reform group, and the Global Research Alliance.
A new dimension was added to our relationship with Finland when they joined the EU in 1995.
New Zealand and Finland have a Working Holiday Scheme in force, which is very popular with young Finns who are able to spend up to a year in New Zealand. This is a welcome strand to our relationship, allowing our young people to create enduring connections. We also have a double taxation agreement with Finland.
| Total trade in goods | $171 million | |
| Exports in Finland | $16 million | Top exports: sheep meat, venison and wine |
| Imports from Finland | $155 million | Top imports: machinery, pork, paper and paperboard |
| GDP | US$253 billion |
New Zealanders aged between 18 and 30 can apply for a 12-month working holiday visa for Finland.
For more information, read the Embassy of Finland website. (external link)
Equal Rights Coalition members urgently call on Russian authorities to investigate reports of arbitrary detention, torture and killing of gay men by security services in Chechnya.
Equal Rights Coalition asks Russia to conduct an investigation into prosecution of LGBTIs in Chechnya.
Statement as delivered by Carolyn Schwalger, Deputy Permanent Representative of New Zealand to the United Nations, 8 November 2016
Delivered by Carolyn Schwalger, Deputy Permanent Representative of New Zealand to the United Nations , 29 February 2016.