KEY POINTS:
The New Zealand and Chinese business communities got together on Friday night at a cocktail function in the Floating Pavilion at the Viaduct Harbour to celebrate the signing of the New Zealand-China Free Trade Agreement.
Speeches flew thick and fast, and speakers and VIP guests included Prime Minister Helen Clark (who was off to see the Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra's Salome later the same night), Chinese Ambassador Yuan Yuan Zhang, Trade Negotiations Minister Phil Goff and former National Party Cabinet minister Philip Burdon, chairman of the Asia New Zealand Foundation.
Highlight: The huge turnout of more than 450 representatives from New Zealand and China to celebrate this political and economic landmark.
Lowlight: The wind - making your way to the Floating Pavilion can be precarious at the best of times, but add a few strong gusts to the mix and you're in for one rather wild ride.
Let us know about your event at flash@nzherald.co.nz
