‘Australians Value N.Z. Friendship’

Press, Volume CVI, Issue 31279, 27 January 1967, Page 2

‘Australians Value N.Z. Friendship’

Australians valued the friendship and co-operation of New Zealanders more than any other people, and friendly ties between Australia and the South Island had continued to grow during the last year, said the Australian Trade Commissioner in the South Island (Mr M. G. B. Coultas) at an Australian Day reception in Christchurch last evening.

There had been a notable expansion of trade between the two areas. Imports from Australia through the port of Lyttelton grew nearly 30 per cent Air cargo through the Christchurch International Airport, bound for Australia, had also increased rapidly.

New Zealand fish, strawberries, carpet, instant food and home freezers had found their way to the Australian market said Mr Coultas. Social events, including the very successful "Australia Week” held in conjunction with the major international airlines, also helped to foster interest between the two areas, he said.

Australian politicians, including two Ministers on a trade mission, business men and scientists visited the South Island during the year. This year would be another vintage year in the development of close relationships, which were essential for the progress and prosperity of the

two countries, said Mr Coultas.

“The first Australian Prime Minister to visit the South Island (Mr Harold Holt) will arrive in Christchurch with his wife on February 4, and later in the month the Deputy Prime Minister (Mr John McEwen) will visit New Zealand to talk on further development of the AustraliaNew Zealand Free Trade Area. “In a few weeks’ time we hope to open a permanent Australian display at the Canterbury Exhibition Centre and later in the year the Australian Commission will be moving into new offices in the Bank of New Zealand building.” A toast to the 179th anniversary of the first landing in New South Wales was proposed by the Mayor of Christchurch (Mr G. Manning). Australia and New Zealand had a unity of purpose in international relations, and a responsible future in Southeast Asia, said Mr Manning.