For a small state such as New Zealand, trade and economic partnerships are extremely important for economic survival. However, the tyranny of distance complicates this somewhat. Historically, New Zealand has always been dependent on exporting agricultural products. There are examples in New Zealand’s history of innovative ideas being utilised to New Zealand’s economic advantage, such as the advent of refrigerated shipping to the United Kingdom.

An important economic partner for New Zealand is the European Union. The European Union is the world’s largest trade power, a formidable partner for a small state, such as New Zealand, to contend with in trade related matters. The agricultural protectionist policies of the European Union are an issue for New Zealand to work around. However, the European Union is also a welcoming market for high quality products that New Zealand should supply. New Zealand’s small size means that the country has to focus on producing high quality products rather than mass production. This thesis proposes to make recommendations for the types of products New Zealand should export to the European Union, in what quantities, and by which methods. This is important for New Zealand producers and exporters to take into account if New Zealand is to expand its exports to the European Union.