Louise Cantillon has been appointed British High Commissioner to New Zealand and Governor of the Pitcairn, Henderson, Ducie & Oeno Islands. Ms Cantillon joins the British High Commission after a career across UK Government, most recently serving as British Consul General Sydney and Deputy Trade Commissioner Asia Pacific (Australia & New Zealand).
The High Commissioner's role will involve supporting increased trade and investment between the UK and New Zealand, leveraging opportunities from the Free Trade Agreement. She will also collaborate with government, business, and civil society partners to promote economic growth, enhance collective security, and address global challenges in the Indo-Pacific region and beyond.
Ms Cantillon stated her delight in taking up the role, highlighting the close partnership between the UK and New Zealand. She expressed her anticipation of meeting people across the country and strengthening ties, noting the shared values, economic links, and connections between the two nations.
The UK-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement, signed on 28 February 2022 and effective from 31 May 2023, is a landmark agreement designed to support economic growth, strengthen trade and investment, and provide tariff-free access. Ms Cantillon succeeds Ms Iona Thomas OBE, whose tenure concluded earlier this year.