[3] Soon after declaring war, New Zealand sent an expeditionary force and occupied the German Samoan islands.

[citation needed] In 1953 West Germany and New Zealand established diplomatic relations.

Since Germany and New Zealand established diplomatic relations, both countries have developed a partnership marked by close mutual trust.

This partnership is based on shared interests and values and it has often made the two countries like-minded partners in international affairs, trade, research and cultural exchange.

New Zealand's main exports to Germany include: meat; optical and medical equipment; fruit; casein; fish and wool.