Christchurch - a year on

On 22 February 2011 Christchurch was hit by a devastating earthquake that destroyed a great part of the city. 182 people lost their lives on that day.

The New Zealand Embassy in Brussels is pleased to support initiatives to raise funds in support of re-building Christchurch.

Reburial service for an unknown New Zealand soldier

The remains of an unknown soldier from the First World War were discovered during excavations of a building site in July 2011 in Mesen, West Flanders. Based on objects recovered with the remains including, unit insignia of the New Zealand Rifle Brigade as well as the location of the find, the remains were accepted in December 2011 as that of an unidentified New Zealand soldier.

Ambassador presents credentials to the European Council

On 15 November, recently arrived Ambassador, Vangelis Vitalis, presented his credentials to the President of the European Council, Hermann van Rompuy. The ceremony included a discussion with President van Rompuy on a range of topics, including: the recent announcement that the EU and New Zealand would negotiate a Framework Agreement; New Zealand's enduring interest in an FTA with the EU; the evolving nature of Asia-Pacific regional architecture and Eurozone-related matters.