Grahame Norton, a former High Commissioner to India, has been named as New Zealand’s next ambassador to China.
He will begin in the role in December.
In a statement announcing the appointment, Foreign Minister Nanaia Mahuta said China, New Zealand’s top trading partner, shared a long and important relationship with New Zealand.
After 50 years of diplomatic relations, Morton’s “extensive experience across Asia will enhance our relations even further”, she said.
“We will continue to support New Zealand companies, including many iwi businesses, in order to further boost and diversify our growing exports, and provide greater economic security to all New Zealanders.”
Morton, who currently serves as a senior diplomat at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, has previously been an advisor on the Americas and Asia and a manager of the North Asia division.
He was also the lead negotiator for the New Zealand–Singapore Enhanced Partnership and led the New Zealand China Capable Public Sector programme.
