TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — New Taipei Councilor Lahuy Ipin (馬見) hosted former New Zealand officials at the Wulai Atayal Museum to promote dialogue between Taiwan’s Atayal people and the Maori community.

CNA reported Monday that the visiting delegation included former New Zealand Foreign Minister Nanaia Mahuta and former Defense Minister Ron Mark, who toured the museum and met local Indigenous representatives. Members of the Atayal community welcomed them with traditional shawls symbolizing blessing and respect.

During the visit, cultural workers explained Atayal history, rituals, and traditional crafts to the guests. The delegation also learned about the Atayal concept of “Gaga,” which represents social rules, ancestral beliefs, and community organization, UDN reported.

“New Zealand’s efforts to preserve Maori culture and language serve as an important international example,” Lahuy Ipin said. He added that the exchange could become the starting point for deeper Indigenous cooperation between Taiwan and New Zealand, per Liberty Times.

Lahuy Ipin said Indigenous culture should not only be preserved but also understood and respected in wider society. Although the visit was brief, he said it carried symbolic meaning for future cultural collaboration, Economic Daily News reported.