Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, National leader Christopher Luxon, ACT's David Seymour and a number of other ministers and MPs are heading to Samoa next week for a whirlwind visit.
The bipartisan trip is to mark the 60th anniversary of the signing of the Treaty of Friendship between New Zealand and Samoa that followed the island nation becoming independent.
Samoa was under New Zealand's administration for 50 years until 1962. The treaty was signed on August 1 of that year, committing both countries' governments to working together to promote the welfare of the people of Samoa and cooperating with a spirit of friendship.
While in Wellington in June, Samoan Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mata'afa personally invited Ardern to her nation for the anniversary. The Treaty of Friendship was signed by the Samoan Prime Minister's father.
A large delegation will accompany the Prime Minister, including Culture and Heritage Minister Carmel Sepuloni, Pacific Peoples Minister Aupito William Sio, Luxon, Seymour, and other representatives from all political parties, as well as NGOs and community members with strong relationships to Samoa.
The Prime Minister commented on the "fundamental" bipartisan nature of the trip while speaking to media on Thursday.
"We have had 60 years of friendship with Samoa, formalised through the Treaty of Friendship," he said.
"But, of course, at the time, it was signed by the then-National Government and at different points in our relationship we will have different parties in charge. What needs to endure is the work that we do together, the way we collaborate as nations and the relationship that we have. It is an important anniversary, but it is equally important that we are all there to acknowledge it."
Luxon, who also met with the Samoan Prime Minister when she was in New Zealand, said it was "really important" that the trip is bipartisan.
"We are very proud of the Samoan contribution to New Zealand. I think New Zealand is a much richer and better place because of the contributions of the Samoan community and we are very proud to be celebrating the 60th anniversary."
ACT's Seymour said the party was "happy to be part of this important occasion as we strengthen ties with our Pacific partners".
"The 60th anniversary of the signing of the Treaty of Friendship is an important occasion and one we should celebrate. This trip has a clear purpose and is an important occasion. We're pleased to be part of this cross-party event.
"ACT has been clear that we are committed to building better connections with our Pacific Island neighbours. This is more important than ever at the moment."
New Zealand's relationship with the Pacific Islands has been a focus for political parties this year with China pushing to have greater influence in the region.
The delegation will depart for Samoa on Monday morning and return on Tuesday evening.
Ardern on Thursday said, "it is a bit quick… but still enough time to meaningfully acknowledge Samoa's border reopening and the 60th".
