On Wednesday 14 October, the Diplomatic Corps hosted a Reception to farewell three of their Colleagues and Spouses who have completed their terms in New Zealand. The three Ambassadors are from Argentina (HE Mr Fausto López Crozet & Mrs Adriana Tabeira Britos), Italy (HE Mr Fabrizio Marcelli & Ms Carol Ghantous-Marcelli) and Japan (HE Mr Hiroyasu Kobayashi & Mrs Atsuko Kobayashi). The Reception was attended by many Ambassadors and High Commissioners & Spouses as well as several other members of the Diplomatic Corps. Unfortunately, the Argentinian Ambassador & Spouse were not able to attend due to the sudden illness of their son. The High Commissioner of Samoa (HE Leasi Papali’i Scanlan) spoke on behalf of the Diplomatic Corps to acknowledge the friendship and positive contributions of the departing colleagues to the activities of their Dip Corps Family during their time in New Zealand. The Dean then wished their Colleagues safe travels home and the very best in whatever they have planned for the next stages of their lives. The Ambassadors of Italy and Japan, in response, also thanked the Dean and Members of the Dip Corps for their support and friendship and expressed the wish to continue the contacts in the period ahead. On behalf of the Diplomatic Corps, the US Ambassador & Spouse then presented the farewell gifts to the Italians while the Indonesian Ambassador & Spouse presented the gifts to their Japanese Colleagues. The Dean & Spouse will present the gifts for the Argentinians at a later date.