02/09/2026
This week, Ambassador Frater and Deputy Nicolasa Fuller attended the opening of the academic year for Wageningen University & Research and Universiteit Leiden / Leiden University
A great opportunity to celebrate these prestigious institutions, as well as to reflect on the depth of New Zealand's connections with Dutch universities and research institutions, built through longstanding research partnerships, Horizon Europe collaboration, and strong people-to-people links, including student and academic exchanges.
In Wageningen, we were hosted by Marco Otte and Mayor of Wageningen Floor Vermeulen – the opening lectures focused on the social and natural pressures on wolves – a growing population in the east of the Netherlands. At Leiden University, discussions on the opportunities and challenges of AI sat alongside a timely reminder that learning extends beyond the classroom. Students were encouraged to engage with sport, culture, business and civic life, making the most of the unique communities around them in both Leiden and Den Haag campuses. As New Zealanders know, shared experiences, whether in the lecture theatre or on the water with the waka crew at Njoord Rowing Club at Leiden, can build lasting connections.
From Leiden and The Hague's international institutions to Wageningen's globally recognised work supporting sustainable food systems and rural communities, Dutch universities play an important role in addressing real-world challenges. We look forward to continuing to strengthen our partnerships with the Netherlands this academic year.
