Guests cut ribbon during a symposium and a photo exhibition marking the legacy of Rewi Alley and promoting New Zealand-China friendship in Auckland, New Zealand, July 25, 2026.  (Photo by Wu Jiaxiang/Xinhua)

WELLINGTON, July 26 (Xinhua) -- A symposium and a photo exhibition were held on Saturday in New Zealand's largest city of Auckland to mark the legacy of Rewi Alley and promote New Zealand-China friendship.

Rewi Alley was a New Zealand-born writer, social reformer and educator, and he spent 60 years living and working in China from 1927 to 1987, when he passed away from illness in Beijing, China's capital.

The photo exhibition brought to life Alley's unforgettable years in China through precious images displayed for the first time.

Chinese Ambassador to New Zealand Wang Xiaolong spoke highly of the significant contributions made by Alley to China.

He noted that the spirit of Alley remains timeless and serves as a precious asset for the friendship between China and New Zealand, and as next year marks the centenary of Alley's arrival in China, both sides will use this occasion to deepen exchanges and cooperation across various fields and advance the friendly relations to new heights.

Other speakers shared reflections based on their own experiences and perspectives, honoring Alley's moving deeds and noble character, and pledged to uphold the "Alley spirit" and carry forward the friendship between New Zealand and China. ■

A visitor views photos during a photo exhibition marking the legacy of Rewi Alley in Auckland, New Zealand, July 25, 2026.(Photo by Wu Jiaxiang/Xinhua)