ABOUT
Missoula, Montana and Palmerston North, New Zealand have been Sister Cities for over 30 years. In that time the two cities have helped unite cultures and learn from each other through various cultural and educational exchanges. We celebrate this unique relationship with New Zealand Day(s), an event highlighting our longstanding connection with Palmerston North, New Zealand.
Since 2018, Global and Cultural Affairs has provided programming for several days, typically a rugby game on Saturday and a film, panel discussion, or similar event on another day, growing New Zealand Day, into a multi-day event. Learn more about Palmerston North, and our Sister City relationship HERE!
Missoula Current, 2018: New Zealand delegation wants to strengthen cultural, trade, tourism ties to Missoula.
Palmerston North delegation members and Missoula hosts visit the Roxy Theater, introducing Hip Hop-eration (New Zealand film) to the Missoula public. (New Zealand Days, October 2018, Missoula) 
Fort Missoula Maggot Field, Annual Tubby Thompson Match From left to right: Missoula Mayor John Engen, Lucy Beighle, Palmerston North Mayoress Michelle Smith and Palmerston North Mayor Grant Smith. (New Zealand Days, October 2018, Missoula)
2018 New Zealand Day Poster 
Tom Bensen, Executive Director, Arts Missoula, with New Zealand Day T-Shirts, before the start of the annual Tubby Thompson Match at Fort Missoula Maggot Field. (New Zealand Days, October 2018, Missoula)
Fort Missoula Maggot Field, Annual Tubby Thompson Match Welcome speeches, introductions and getting ready for opening ceremony. (New Zealand Days, October 2018, Missoula) 
Missoula Mayor John Engen and members of the Palmerston North delegation performing a traditional Haka, before the start of the annual Tubby Thompson Match at Fort Missoula Maggot Field. From left to right: Missoula Mayor John Engen, Palmerston North Mayor Grant Smith, Willie Brown (born in Palmerston North, living in Missoula), Hone Morris, Professor Massey University, Palmerston North and Wiremu Te Awe Awe, Maori Chief. The haka is a ceremonial dance or challenge in Māori culture. It is a posture dance performed by a group, with vigorous movements and stamping of the feet with rhythmically shouted accompaniment. (New Zealand Days, October 2018, Missoula)
SPONSORS
The Trail, 103.3
The Roxy Theater
Missoula All-Maggots Rugby Club
Missoula Youth Rugby
Lake Missoula Tea Company