A senior Turkish delegation connected to the Gallipoli Peninsula has visited Wellington, reflecting the steady, workmanlike ties that sit behind Anzac commemorations each year.

Veterans Minister Chris Penk said the visit reinforced a relationship built in the wake of the First World War and maintained through regular contact, visitor access to the peninsula, and shared commemorations.

The group included Ömer Toraman, Governor of Çanakkale — the province that includes the Gallipoli Peninsula — İsmail Kaşdemir, who leads the Gallipoli Historical Site Directorate, and Kerem Yenigün, District Governor of Eceabat. While in Wellington they met Foreign Minister Winston Peters, laid a wreath at Pukeahu National War Memorial Park, visited Te Papa’s Gallipoli exhibition, and met officials.

Penk thanked Turkish authorities for their continued role hosting New Zealanders who travel to the peninsula, particularly around Anzac Day. He also pointed to wider global instability in arguing for a continued emphasis on reconciliation and practical cooperation.

No new initiatives were announced in the release. The presence of officials responsible for the Gallipoli historical area suggests ongoing operational discussions ahead of this year’s Anzac services, including site management and visitor arrangements, but details were not provided. Penk said the relationship is also being extended through youth engagement and cultural exchanges, without outlining specific programmes.

“The relationship between Türkiye and New Zealand stands as a remarkable example of enduring reconciliation,” Penk said, adding that both countries should “heed the lessons of history” while working together on a cooperative future.