Dame Patsy virtually welcomed incoming Diplomats to Government House with the return of Credentials ceremonies via Zoom this afternoon. Presenting their letters of credence today were HE Mrs Felicidade de Sousa Guterres, Ambassador of the Democratic Republic of Timor Leste, HE Mr Wolfgang-Lukas Strohmayer, Ambassador of Austria, HE Mr Joe Tapera Mhishi, Ambassador of the Republic of Zimbabwe, HE Mr Ronald Recinos, Ambassador of the Republic of Guatemala and HE Mr Mario Farrugia Borg, High Commissioner of the Republic of Malta.
As a result of New Zealand being in Alert Level 3 and with all but two of the Diplomats based in Australia, the ceremony was held via Zoom.
In usual circumstances, Credentials ceremonies showcase a uniquely Aotearoa New Zealand welcome for Ambassadors and High Commissioners as they begin their posting. The setup of the Zoom version instead offers a lesson on Kiwi ingenuity!
