Members of the New Zealand business and diplomatic community gathered in Bangkok for the annual New Zealand Ball 2026, organised by the New Zealand Society Thailand and New Zealand–Thai Chamber of Commerce (NZTCC), celebrating friendship, cultural exchange and business collaboration between the two countries.

The evening was attended by Jonathan Kings H.E. the New Zealand Ambassador to Thailand, together with leaders from the New Zealand business community, sponsors, and representatives from major companies supporting the event.

Highlights of the evening included a traditional Māori welcome and a vibrant Kapa Haka cultural performance presented by members of the New Zealand community in Thailand, offering guests a glimpse into the rich heritage and traditions of Aotearoa New Zealand.

The Khutze Band featuring some of New Zealand’s best musicians flown from New Zealand and specially formed for the Ball and renowned for performing at international corporate events and high-profile cultural functions, including previous New Zealand Ball celebrations in Bangkok.

Led by drummer and musician Patrick Kuhtze, the band delivered a high-energy live performance that has become a signature highlight of the annual gala. Kuhtze Band has long been recognised for its dynamic stage presence and musical versatility, with earlier recordings including a cover release of I Feel Good documented in New Zealand’s Pop Archives.

The culinary experience of the evening was curated together by Gaetano Palumbo, executive chef at Intercontinental Hotel Bangkok and Brett McGregor, the first-ever winner of MasterChef New Zealand, who created a special multi-course menu for the gala. The menu showcased premium New Zealand ingredients, including Mt. Cook Alpine Salmon, supplied in Asia by Hofseth Asia Pte. Ltd., highlighting the quality and reputation of New Zealand’s world-class seafood.

Followed by remarks from Dan Smith , President of the New Zealand Society Thailand and General Manager at Dusit D2 Samyan and Amarit Charoenphan , President of New Zealand–Thai Chamber of Commerce (NZTCC). The event also brought together the generous support of leading corporate partners and sponsors from sectors including aviation, engineering, hospitality, logistics and energy such as Singapore Airlines Limited, Air New Zealand Limited and Beca Group Limited, together with Amrapur Tailor, Dusit D2 Samyan Bangkok, Fonterra Co-operative Group Limited, Gurin Energy Pte Ltd, Mainfreight Limited and Thai Beverage Public Company Limited and InterContinental Bangkok, part of InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG Hotels & Resorts).

Guests enjoyed a vibrant programme featuring traditional Māori cultural performances, networking opportunities and charity fundraising activities, reflecting the spirit of partnership and cultural exchange between New Zealand and Thailand.

The annual gala not only celebrates New Zealand culture but also reinforces the growing economic and social ties between Thailand and New Zealand.

https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/pr/3216169/new-zealand-community-celebrates-thailand-new-zealand-partnership-at-new-zealand-ball-2026