After nearly four years in New Zealand, it’s time for me to say farewell as British High Commissioner - and share what comes next… I’m proud of what we have achieved in the UK-NZ relationship in my time here - a partnership grounded in shared values which is focused on delivering for both our countries - from increasing trade to standing alongside each other on security and global challenges and working together in the Pacific. I’ve loved getting out and about around the country and seeing innovation, ambition and partnership up close - and being reminded time and again that people-to-people ties bind us close. Most of all, I’d like to thank the UK in New Zealand team whose energy, creativity and commitment have turned ambition into delivery. Next, I’m heading back to London to take up my new role as Director Multilateral at the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office. At a time when the international system is facing challenges, I’m motivated by the simple idea that shared challenges need shared solutions. Thank you, New Zealand - I will miss you and I’ll be cheering on the UK-NZ partnership from my next chapter.
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Kia ora thank you for your kindness to our kids, you lunched our daughter Manutai to thank her for working at the ball a year or two back. Her great great Grandfather Sir Maui Pōmare (MP/Min Health & first Māori Doctor) accompanied HRH the Prince of Wales on to Te Arawa Park in 1920. Manutai like her brother is following in her ancestors footsteps as a medical doctor. My cousin in Catherine Louden holds annual gardening shows at her home Tichborne Park, perhaps we will meet there someday- ngā mihi
Thank you for representing the UK in New Zealand Iona Thomas and wishing you the very best in your new role: you'll be immense.
You were very effective in your role, thank you for your service.
Thank you for your passion and commitment to positive progress in the UK NZ relationship. We will miss you being ‘on the other side’ in NZ but very much looking forward to connecting with you in London and working together on multilateral priorities. Safe returns and see you soon in London!
Thanks for your wonderful support Iona and best wishes for your new role. I look forward to staying in touch.
Go well Iona Thomas . Hope to see you at an All Blacks v England game soon 🏉
Thanks for all your amazing work Iona Thomas. It was great to engage with you while your time in NZ. Best wishes for your next endeavour.
Congratulations Iona Thomas on a fantastic tour in NZ and thank you for your leadership and support for UK Defence in NZ and Oceania.
Good work Iona. It's been great to watch your tenure from afar and your journey across NZ and beyond through Matt's photos. good luck to you both on the move. the next job is a critical one.
Congratulations on an outstanding tenure, Iona Thomas. Your leadership has strengthened the UK–NZ relationship and delivered significant impact across trade, culture and collaboration. I've especially valued your support for Eden Park, New Zealand initiatives, including the recent Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo. It has been a pleasure to work together. Wishing you every success in your new role in London, and please let us know if you are ever back in Auckland. We would love to welcome you back to the Park.