Sisterly bonds tipped to lift cities' economies

North Shore and Waitakere City Councils are predicting boosts to their economies - thanks to their sister cities in China.

North Shore mayor Andrew Williams is to visit Qingdao in August to sign a sister-city agreement with the host of the Olympic Games sailing events.

He said the relationship would particularly benefit marine technology companies and education businesses and schools.

"As mayor I will be able to set up meetings directly with the Qingdao mayor and voice any concerns about important matters."

In May, Waitakere mayor Bob Harvey visited Ningbo to commemorate 10 years of a sister-city relationship.

He said New Zealand's Free Trade Agreement with China had lifted awareness of the country and the years of friendship with Ningbo were about to pay off.