Her Excellency Kristina Jonek, Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Germany to New Zealand, was warmly welcomed to Government House to present her Letter of Credence, formally confirming her appointment by German Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier as Ambassador to New Zealand’s Governor-General, Her Excellency the Rt Hon Dame Cindy Kiro.
The moving pōwhiri and traditional ceremony left a lasting impression. For Ambassador Jonek, performing a popular German folk tune as part of the ceremony was a particularly meaningful and memorable experience.
Ambassador Jonek is deeply honoured to represent Germany in Aotearoa New Zealand. Both nations share a strong and long-standing friendship that transcends the geographic distance between our two countries.
With 2027 marking 50 years of science and technology cooperation between our two countries, Ambassador Jonek looks forward to listening, building new connections and deepening our collaboration - from science, technology and security to expanding trade relations and working together with our partners.
In her remarks, Ambassador Jonek noted the Māori whakataukī (saying) “Nāu te rourou, nāku te rourou, ka ora ai te iwi” - “With your contribution, with my contribution, the people will thrive.” The whakataukī beautifully reflects the spirit of partnership and shared contribution that Ambassador Jonek hopes to bring to her role in Aotearoa New Zealand.
Follow our journey as we share her experiences, engagements, and the vibrant connection between Germany and New Zealand right here on our social media.
A new chapter in a longstanding friendship begins.