Grant Smith, mayor of Palmerston North, New Zealand, led a delegation to Guiyang, Guizhou province, on Oct 23–24 for a visit focused on exchanges and cooperation.

Grant Smith takes a ride on the Wonder Loop route in Guiyang. [Photo/Guiyang news network]

At Guiyang No 6 High School, the delegation met with teachers and students for friendly exchanges. At Guizhou Hankaisi Intelligent Technology Co, Smith learned about the development and production of the RoboBus (locally nicknamed "Potato Bus"), an innovative autonomous mobility vehicle. He also took a ride on the Wonder Loop route along Changling North Road, praising its forward-thinking design.

The delegation also visited Qingyun Market, where its lively streets and unique local character sparked great interest. At the Guizhou International Chamber of Commerce for the Private Sector, the visitors met with business representatives from various sectors to discuss opportunities for collaboration.

Grant Smith visits Guiyang's Qingyun Market. [Photo/Guiyang news network]

The trip also took the delegates to Tianhetan Scenic Area, with its natural beauty leaving a strong impression on them.

Building on the visit, Guiyang hopes to strengthen its friendship with Palmerston North and expand cooperation in education, science and technology innovation, culture, tourism, and trade. Both sides will work to develop practical, high-quality partnerships that deliver tangible benefits and deepen ties between the two cities.