Change of British High Commissioner to New Zealand: Louise Cantillon

Louise Cantillon has been appointed as the British High Commissioner to New Zealand and Governor of the Pitcairn, Henderson, Ducie & Oeno Islands, following a career in UK Government roles including British Consul General in Sydney and Deputy Trade Commissioner for Asia Pacific. Her appointment follows the completion of Iona Thomas OBE’s tenure earlier in the year. The UK Government stated her role will focus on enhancing trade and investment between the UK and New Zealand, building on the Free Trade Agreement between the two nations.

Cantillon will work with government, business, and civil society partners to promote economic growth, strengthen collective security, and address global challenges in the Indo-Pacific region and beyond. The UK Government highlighted her responsibilities include supporting regional stability and collaborating on international issues under a rules-based system.

In her statement, Cantillon expressed her enthusiasm for the role, emphasising the close partnership between the UK and New Zealand. She noted shared values, strong economic ties, and cultural connections, and outlined plans to strengthen these relationships while fostering new opportunities for growth and innovation.

The UK and New Zealand governments have underscored the importance of their bilateral relationship, particularly in advancing the Free Trade Agreement and addressing global challenges. The appointment reflects the UK’s commitment to maintaining strong ties with New Zealand amid increasing global uncertainty.