Press Statement

The Fiji High Commission, Wellington is grateful to the New Zealand Government for the seamless coordination of all arrangements for the visit of the Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs Hon. Sitiveni Rabuka.

All members of the New Zealand security detail for the Honourable Prime Minister were provided by the New Zealand Government.

It’s unfortunate that certain members of the media have resorted to racist tropes in reference to the pictures of two New Zealanders who were members of the security detail. The two gentlemen in question were part of a bigger team that drew its membership from the cross-section of New Zealand society.

The Fiji High Commission thanks them for their professionalism, candour and attention to detail. The visit by the Honourable Prime Minister proceeded without incident despite some variations to the programme.

We extend our appreciation to the Fiji Day Committee for organizing another successful event and to the Fijian community in Auckland and beyond for the massive turnout at Mangere Centre Park. That the festivities were enjoyed by Fijians from all walks of life who met with the Honourable Prime Minister augurs for our continued unity as Fijians.

We thank the New Zealand Government for all the arrangements.