People visit an exhibition of prints and landscapes of southwest China's Chongqing Municipality, in Auckland, New Zealand, July 10, 2019. The exhibition opened here Wednesday, offering visitors an opportunity to know the unique culture in southwest China. More than 100 local residents and guests participated in the exhibition, featured with over 60 paintings by farmers from Chongqing's Qijiang County and more than 30 photos of Nanchuan World Natural Heritage Scenery. The event was hosted by China Cultural Center in Wellington and Chongqing Municipal Commission of Culture and Tourism Development. (Xinhua/Sun Xueliang)

AUCKLAND, New Zealand, July 10 (Xinhua)-- An exhibition on prints and landscape in China's Chongqing Municipality has opened here Wednesday, offering visitors a great opportunity to know the unique culture in southwest China.

More than 100 local residents and guests participated in the exhibition, featured with over 60 paintings by farmers from Chongqing's Qijiang County and more than 30 photos of Nanchuan World Natural Heritage Scenery.

The event is hosted by China Cultural Center in Wellington and Chongqing Municipal Commission of Culture and Tourism Development.

New Zealand's artist Sylvia Williams said that the paintings showcased Chinese people's talent and profound Chinese civilization. She enjoyed the exhibition and would like to go to Chongqing for further exploration.

Tan Jialing, vice chairwoman of Chongqing Municipal Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, introduced Chongqing's plan to make the city a cultural and tourist destination and invited New Zealand friends to visit the city.

"This year is China-New Zealand year of tourism. We are looking forward to deepening exchanges with New Zealand on culture and tourism," said Tan.

Deputy Consul-General of China in Auckland Xiao Yewen acknowledged this exhibition as a great opportunity to promote bilateral exchange between China and New Zealand, and Chongqing and Auckland.

"China is New Zealand's second largest tourist market and the number of two-way visits reached 600,000 last year. Tourism has played an important role in promoting people to people exchange and mutual understandings between the two countries, bringing great impetus to facilitate our social and economic development," said Xiao.