Singapore Country Paper
How do New Zealanders view Singapore?
In this country profile, we look at the latest New Zealanders' Perceptions of Asia and Asian Peoples research to gain an understanding of how New Zealanders feel about Singapore.
Importance to New Zealand’s future
Fifty-four percent feel that Singapore is very important or important to New Zealand’s future, ranking fourth after China, Japan, and India.
Defence and security relations
Singapore is considered New Zealand’s third most important security and defence partner, after Japan and South Korea.
“I want to know more about their culture, what their ancient history is like. How they survive and thrive on such a small land mass.”
30-34 years, female, European, Auckland
Influence over New Zealand
Just 2% of repondents thought Singapore was the country in Asia with the most influence over New Zealand. New Zealanders believe that China is the Asian country with the most influence over New Zealand, followed by Japan, India, South Korea, and Singapore. China is still expected to be the most influential in 10-to-20 years’ time, and India’s future influence is also expected to increase.
“[Singapore] has always been a strong link between the
East and West.”
60-69 years, male, European, Auckland
Travel
• Singapore is New Zealanders’ most visited country in Asia.
• Of the 58 percent of New Zealanders who have visited or traveled to Asia, 60 percent have been to Singapore.
• Singapore is the second most popular choice for future travel, with 44 percent of New Zealanders saying they would like to visit.
“Singapore has beautiful landscape and I’d be interested in travelling for holiday.”
20-24 years, female, European and Māori, Manawatū-Wanganui
Friend or threat?
Singapore is regarded as one of New Zealand’s closest friends in Asia, second only to Japan:
• 69 percent of New Zealanders regard Singapore as a friend, with 15 percent considering it a close friend.
• Only one percent see it as a threat.
Knowledge and interest
• Singapore ranks fourth when it comes to which countries in Asia New Zealanders feel they know best, with 10 percent of respondents naming it as the place in Asia they know the most about.
• The majority of those who said they are most familiar with Singapore said they gained this
knowledge through visiting the country, followed by learning about it through friends and family.
• Singapore ranks fourth–equal with South Korea and Vietnam when it comes to the places in Asia New Zealanders most want to learn more about.
Download the Singapore Country Profile
pdf, 16.74 MB
The Foundation's Research Programme commissions studies that support informed public conversations about New Zealand’s relationship with Asia. We also support the next generation of scholars through our Foundation Research Grants.
Our Asia in Focus programme provides expert analysis on on Asia and New Zealand-Asia relations.
