Kiribati

New Zealand and Kiribati enjoy a long-standing and friendly bilateral relationship, built on strong people-to-people connections and a shared Pacific identity.

Kiribati has become a leading voice in the region on climate change, advocating for action on one of the most pressing challenges facing Pacific nations. The country is also active on issues such as fisheries management and environmental conservation, including in regional and international forums.

New Zealand has maintained a resident diplomatic presence in Kiribati since 1980, with a fully staffed High Commission in Tarawa. This reflects our deep commitment to the partnership and to supporting Kiribati’s development and regional engagement.

Development cooperation and sustainability

New Zealand’s development cooperation with Kiribati supports improved health outcomes, inclusive economic development, and strengthened climate resilience.

As one of Kiribati’s largest development partners, New Zealand works in close partnership with the Government of Kiribati and local communities to help realise the country’s development priorities, as outlined in the Kiribati 20-Year Vision.(external link)

Kiribati scholars are eligible for the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship Programme which offers undergraduate and postgraduate tertiary scholarships, thematic short-term training, and vocational/professional short-term training. More information, including availability and application processes, are available here(external link)

Comprehensive information on New Zealand’s development cooperation activities in Kiribati—including project details, timeframes, sectoral focus, and expenditure—is available on DevData(external link).  

Trade and investment

Kiribati’s 20-Year Vision 2016–2036(external link) identifies its people as the country’s greatest asset. Central to the Vision is the development of a globally competitive and mobile workforce to drive sustainable growth and resilience.

Fisheries remain Kiribati’s primary source of revenue. New Zealand is a key partner in supporting the sustainable development of this vital sector, contributing to economic stability and food security.

Both New Zealand and Kiribati are signatories to the Pacific Agreement on Closer Economic Relations(external link) (PACER Plus), which came into force on 13 December 2020. This regional trade and development agreement promotes economic integration and inclusive growth across the Pacific.

For up-to-date information on New Zealand’s trade relationship with Kiribati, including export and import data, visit the New Zealand Trade Dashboard(external link).

People and culture

New Zealand is home to a vibrant I-Kiribati community, contributing to the cultural diversity and strength of our Pacific connections.

Each year, a number of Kiribati citizens are granted New Zealand residency through the Pacific Access Category visa, supporting family reunification and long-term settlement opportunities.

Kiribati citizens also participate in the Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) scheme, which provides valuable employment opportunities in New Zealand’s horticulture and viticulture sectors. The scheme delivers mutual benefits—supporting New Zealand’s seasonal labour needs while generating income and skills that benefit workers’ families and communities in Kiribati.

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