Trump chooses US Ambassador

US President Donald Trump has named Jared Novelly as the next United States Ambassador to New Zealand and Samoa.

Novelly, a well-known philanthropist and businessman, owns the Illawarra Hawks basketball team, which competes in the NBL alongside New Zealand’s Breakers. Meanwhile, New Zealand’s Foreign Minister Winston Peters had his first call with the new US administration to discuss future cooperation.

President Trump described Novelly as “highly respected” and said he would focus on protecting US interests in the Indo-Pacific region. Novelly is expected to strengthen ties between the US and New Zealand during his term.

Foreign Minister Peters also announced his conversation with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Peters shared on social media that the discussion focused on the strong partnership between the two countries, which he said plays a big role in the security and prosperity of New Zealand and the broader Indo-Pacific region.

Peters expressed confidence in building a stronger relationship with the US, mentioning goals like advancing Pacific-focused initiatives, expanding trade, and working together in areas like space exploration. The pair also exchanged ideas on global challenges, including North Korea, the war in Ukraine, and the Middle East.

Looking ahead, Peters hopes to visit Washington, D.C., early in Secretary Rubio’s term to strengthen their cooperation. A US State Department spokesperson praised New Zealand’s commitment to shared values and working closely with like-minded nations.