Rotorua and Arras formalise sister-city relationship over shared history

Friday 16 October 2026 · 2 outlets · 2 reports · updated Sat 17 Oct, 7:15am

Rotorua and the French city of Arras have signed a sister-city agreement at Te Puia. The pact honours the connection between the cities following the service of Māori soldiers and New Zealand tunnellers during World War I. The signing occurred during a visit from the Mayor of Arras and the French Ambassador.

How they headlined it

First reported by NZ Herald, Fri 16 Oct, 5:44pm · 2 reports from 2 outlets over 14 hours

NZ HeraldFri 16 Oct, 5:44pm

Rotorua and France’s Arras become sister cities, honouring shared World War I history (opens in new tab)
1NewsSat 17 Oct, 7:15am

Century after Māori soldiers served in France, cities sign sister-city pact (opens in new tab)