Poland in New Zealand

The event, which was held at the Legislative Council Chamber located in the New Zealand Parliament,  was graced by the presence of our New Zealand friends and partners, parliamentarians, diplomats, academics and members of the Polish community from all corners of the country, including a very special guest, Mr Józef Zawada, a “Pahiatua boy”.

In his speech, Head of Mission Patryk Błaszczak outlined the historical context in which the Constitution of 3 May 1791 was adopted and contrasted that turbulent time in Poland's history with the country's standing today resulting from hard work, robust growth, strong alliances and good governance.

He also spoke about Poland's close and friendly ties with New Zealand: "We may be separated by 18000 kilometres, but our relations are based on the strong foundation of common values and on a shared belief that the international order should be based on the force of law, and not on the law of force".

In this context, Mr Błaszczak outlined the main priorities of the Polish presidency of the Council of the European Union focusing on security in all its dimensions, and reaffirmed Poland's commitment to supporting Ukraine politically, economically and militarily "not only because we believe it to be right, but also because we know that peace with Russia is only possible through strength”.

Another highlight of the evening was a guest performance of two outstanding musicians – Kristina Zelinska and Sasha Gunchenko of the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra, who graced the occasion with their interpretation of Chopin’s Nocturne in C Sharp Minor and a deeply moving rendition of Myroslav Skoryk’s iconic “Melody”.

Our National Day reception was a celebration of Poland’s heritage, of the close ties between Poland and New Zealand, of long-lasting friendships but also, thanks to The Polish Sausage Company and Barlovska Craft Liqueurs, of traditional Polish flavours with a New Zealand twist. A very special thank you goes to dancers from the Orzeł Dance Ensemble for infusing the event with colour and radiance.