A representative of the Nisga'a tribe from British Columbia will spend six months in Canada and a Maori representative will spend six months in New Zealand under an exchange agreed during last year's visit to New Zealand by Deputy Minister of Indian and Northern Affairs Scott Serson. The aboriginal dimension of New Zealand's relationship with Canada is growing in importance and the business exchange will be a useful tool in enhancing relations between Maori and First Nations and Inuit. Canada's High Commissioner in Wellington, Valerie Raymond , was in Canada this month participating with Head of Mission colleagues from around the Asia Pacific region in an outreach programme to Canadian business and other interests. Ms Raymond spoke enthusiastically about the prospects for trade and investment for Canada with New Zealand, highlighting our open economy, similar cultural conditions and specific opportunities for Canada in a number of sectors. While trade between New Zealand and Canada continue at healthy levels, Canada is New Zealand's fourth largest source of foreign direct investment.
Winter slowly draws to a close.