Governor General’s Reception for the Diplomatic Corps

3rd November 2021
New Zealand Governor General (HE The Rt Hon Dame Cindy Kiro) and Dean of the Diplomatic Corps and Samoa High Commissioner (HE Leasi Scanlan).

Photo supplied by the Governor General of New Zealand
On Friday 29 October 2021, the NZ Governor General HE Dame Cindy Kiro and Dr Richard Davies hosted a Reception at Government House for the Diplomatic Corps. This was the first Official Reception hosted by Her Excellency since her Swearing In as the new Governor General of New Zealand on 21 October. In her address, Dame Cindy welcomed the Members of the Diplomatic Corps to Government House and acknowledged the good work that they are doing in not only representing the bond of friendship between their home countries and New Zealand but also as vital touchpoint for their countrymen and women who have chosen New Zealand as their home. Her Excellency expressed her intention to develop a cordial and strong relationship with the Diplomatic Corps during her Term. Dame Cindy then wished the departing Heads of Mission all the very best in their next postings and encouraged those Excellencies who are staying on to take the opportunity to also enjoy New Zealand’s great walks and beaches as well as experiencing the real Kiwi hospitality. Above all, Her Excellency urged the Heads of Mission to get some well-earned rest.

On behalf of the Diplomatic Corps, the Samoa High Commissioner and Dean of the Corps (HE Leasi Scanlan) congratulated Dame Cindy Kiro on her appointment as the 22nd Governor General of New Zealand and especially for being the first Maori Female appointed to this very distinguished and prestigious position. Leasi thanked the Governor General and Dr Davies for the honour of having the Diplomatic Corps as the Official Guests to their first Official Reception at Government House. The Dean noted that this is a reflection of the importance and special recognition that Her Excellency grants to the Heads of State and countries represented by the fifty Ambassadors and High Commissioners based in Wellington. He added that the Members of their Diplomatic Corps Family look forward to continuing the warm and friendly relationship that the Corps have enjoyed with Dame Patsy and Sir David, with Dame Cindy and Dr Davies. In concluding, His Excellency wished Dame Cindy and Dr Davies all the very best during their Term over the next five years.

A copy of the Dean's speech can be viewed here.