Chat & Cheers: Kia Ora, Ambassador! brings together Thai and international business leaders to explore trade, innovation and stronger partnerships between New Zealand and Thailand.
The New Zealand-Thai Chamber of Commerce (NZTCC) brought together Thailand’s business community, diplomats and international executives for “Chat & Cheers: Kia Ora, Ambassador!”, an evening of networking and business connections held on October 8, 2026, at Pullman Bangkok Hotel G. The event marked a special occasion to welcome Her Excellency Raylene Liufalani, the newly appointed Ambassador of New Zealand to Thailand, while highlighting opportunities to strengthen economic ties between the two countries.
The gathering welcomed business leaders, entrepreneurs and industry representatives from a wide range of sectors, including technology, healthcare, services, and food and beverage, reflecting the growing diversity of the New Zealand–Thailand business community.
Exploring New Zealand–Thailand Trade and Economic Opportunities
The evening opened with welcoming remarks from Mr. Amarit Charoenphan, President of the New Zealand-Thai Chamber of Commerce, before H.E. Raylene Liufalani delivered a keynote address titled “New Zealand and Thailand: Opportunities for Trade, Economic Partnership, and Innovation.”
In her address, the Ambassador highlighted the complementary strengths of both economies and the potential to expand cooperation across innovation, technology, advanced manufacturing, sustainability and food production.
New Zealand’s expertise, combined with Thailand’s manufacturing capabilities, market scale and position as a regional business hub, offers opportunities for mutually beneficial partnerships and long-term economic growth.
The occasion was particularly meaningful as Thailand and New Zealand celebrate 70 years of diplomatic relations in 2026. Bilateral trade continues to grow, with Thailand now ranking as New Zealand’s ninth-largest trading partner, reflecting the importance of the relationship and its potential for further development.
Bringing Business Leaders and International Partners Together
The event also welcomed distinguished guests, including Mr. Weerapong Prapa, Thailand Trade Representative; Mr. Pravit Prakitsri, Deputy Chief of the Working Committee on Oceania and Advisor to the Board of Trade of Thailand; and Mr. Ravi Sehgal, Vice Chairman of the Joint Foreign Chambers of Commerce in Thailand (JFCCT), alongside members of the NZTCC Board of Directors and representatives from the business community.
Following the formal programme, Her Excellency joined VIP guests and event sponsors for a ceremonial toast, officially opening the evening’s networking session.
Guests continued their conversations over New Zealand wines and cuisine, creating an opportunity to exchange ideas, build professional connections and explore potential collaborations across industries.
Supporting Stronger New Zealand–Thailand Connections
The NZTCC extended its appreciation to the official event sponsors whose support contributed to the success of the evening: Mainfreight Logistics (Thailand), Singapore Airlines and Charoen Pokphand Group (CPF).
Through events such as Chat & Cheers: Kia Ora, Ambassador!, the New Zealand-Thai Chamber of Commerce continues to provide a platform for business networking, knowledge exchange and stronger connections between the New Zealand and Thai business communities.
For information about upcoming events, membership opportunities and bilateral trade initiatives, visit www.nztcc.org or contact *director@nztcc.org*.