http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/mission_news.html Latest Headlines from the U.S. Embassy, Wellington, New Zealand, U.S. Consulate General Auckland, and U.S. Ambassador to New Zealand, David Huebner - covering topics from U.S. New Zealand relations and trade issues to environmental and security issues. en-nz Wed, 02 May 2012 15:20:02 +1200 http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/xml/rss_xml.jpg http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/mission_news.html 144 318 http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/napolitano.html WELLINGTON, New Zealand—Secretary of Homeland Security Janet Napolitano today traveled to Wellington, New Zealand where she was joined by U.S. Ambassador to New Zealand David Huebner and Department of Homeland Security Assistant Secretary for International Affairs Alan Bersin in bilateral meetings with Prime Minister John Key and other New Zealand counterparts to discuss a variety of issues including information sharing, trusted traveler programs, combating transnational crime and human trafficking.

" Our two nations may be oceans apart, but we are both tied to the same global economy and same international transportation networks – and we must work together to protect them," said Secretary Napolitano. "By enhancing collaboration between our two countries – and with our many partners across the region – we will continue to ensure the security of the region, while combating threats to our citizens."

While in New Zealand, Secretary Napolitano signed Joint Statement on Combating Trafficking in Persons in the Pacific Islands Region with Immigration Minister Nathan Guy, and signed a Joint Statement to Strengthen Border Security, Combat Transitional Organized Crime, and Facilitate Legitimate Trade and Travel with Customs Minister Maurice Williamson, which emphasized the commitment to combating transnational crime, while facilitating legitimate trade and travel.

Secretary Napolitano also met bilaterally with Prime Minister Key, Minister of Justice Judith Collins, Foreign Affairs Minister Murray McCully and Attorney General Chris Finlayson.

Tomorrow, Secretary Napolitano will meet with Leader of the Opposition David Shearer before continuing on her trip to Canberra and Brisbane, Australia where she will lead the Presidential delegation to the 70th Anniversary Commemoration of the Battle of the Coral Sea, the World War II battle that marked the start of the U.S.-Australia security partnership. While in Canberra and Brisbane, Secretary Napolitano will deliver remarks on the importance of security, privacy, and strong international partnerships at the Australian National University, and meet with Australian counterparts to discuss efforts to combat transnational crime, counter violent extremism, enhance information sharing, and ensure a more safe, secure, and resilient global supply chain. [read statement] ]]> http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/napolitano.html Wed, 02 May 2012 16:03:00 GMT http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/napolitano.html
Secretary of Homeland Security Janet Napolitano will travel to Wellington, New Zealand, and Canberra and Brisbane, Australia on May 2-5. In Wellington, Secretary Napolitano will meet with Prime Minister John Key, and participate in bilateral meetings with New Zealand counterparts to discuss a variety of issues including information sharing, combating transnational crime and human trafficking.

In Australia, Secretary Napolitano will lead the Presidential delegation to the 70th Anniversary Commemoration of the Battle of the Coral Sea, the World War II battle that marked the start of the U.S.-Australia security partnership. While in Canberra and Brisbane, Secretary Napolitano will deliver remarks on security, privacy, and strong international partnerships at the Australian National University, and meet with Australian counterparts to discuss the ongoing partnerships to combat transnational crime, counter violent extremism, enhance information sharing, and work to ensure a more safe, secure, and resilient global supply chain. More details on the trip will be released once they are finalized.

[read statement] ]]> http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/napolitano.html Mon, 30 Apr 2012 16:03:00 GMT http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2012/04/anzac-day-message-from-secretary-clinton/
On behalf of President Obama and the people of the United States, I am delighted to send best wishes to the people of Australia and New Zealand on ANZAC Day this April 25th.

Today we pay tribute to all the men and women in the armed forces of Australia and New Zealand who have served with dedication, courage, and sacrifice. We remember those who have given their lives and the families and friends who mourn them — they are the heroes who we honor every day by working to make our world safer and more secure.

This year, as we commemorate ANZAC Day, we also remember those brave soldiers who were working for peace seventy years ago. At that time, the Pacific faced an uncertain future, but American, Australian, and New Zealand troops joined together and stood up for the tenets of democracy. Because of their sacrifices and dedication, today we enjoy countless freedoms. As we commemorate ANZAC Day, we must recommit ourselves to their mission: the pursuit of freedom, prosperity, and democracy throughout the world.

[read media release] ]]> http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2012/04/anzac-day-message-from-secretary-clinton/ Wed, 25 Apr 2012 01:03:00 GMT http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2012/04/rising-rugby-stars-from-los-angeles-tour-new-zealand/

We welcomed a very special group of visitors to town last month. Forty students from Los Angeles toured New Zealand for three weeks as part of an American rugby exchange program sponsored by the Inner City Education Foundation (ICEF), on an itinerary that included stops in Auckland, Raglan, Rotorua, Turangi, Wellington, Kaikoura, and Christchurch.

ICEF operates a network of 15 charter schools in the Crenshaw Corridor area of South Los Angeles. Established to prepare under-served students to attend and succeed at top American universities, the ICEF schools provide high-quality, tuition-free primary, intermediate, and secondary education in economically disadvantaged areas of the city. (This year marks the 20th anniversary of the passage of the California Charter Schools Act, and there are currently more than 980 charter schools educating more than 412,000 students in the State.) [read entire post] ]]> http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2012/04/rising-rugby-stars-from-los-angeles-tour-new-zealand/ Thu, 19 Apr 2012 01:03:00 GMT http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/mil_exercise.html
U.S. Ambassador David Huebner today joined Defence Minister Jonathan Coleman in welcoming U.S. military personnel to New Zealand to exercise with their counterparts.

"With the signing of the Wellington Declaration, both countries committed to exploring mutually beneficial areas of cooperation and coordination. That's precisely what we are doing," said Ambassador Huebner.

The Ambassador noted that the breadth and depth of present-day interaction between the two countries is based on a long, uninterrupted history of friendship.

"We have a very long history of engagement. This year marks 70 years of formal bilateral relations as well as 174 years of American diplomatic presence in Aotearoa. Our relationship has always included mutual support and cooperation on humanitarian, disaster relief, and other security matters."

Ambassador Huebner said he was very much looking forward to the centerpiece of the year in June when the Marine Band and other Marines will visit to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the arrival of American forces to help defend New Zealand and the South Pacific during World War II.

"How Kiwis and Americans worked together during the dark days of 1942 is a particularly powerful part of our shared history. It is a values-based touchstone as we explore new and innovative ways of expressing that long-standing friendship," Huebner said.

The invitation for the Marines to participate in marking the 70th anniversary was extended when Prime Minister Key was in the U.S. to see President Obama last year. U.S. Major General Peter Talleri formally accepted the invitation when he visited New Zealand last November. [read media release] ]]> http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/mil_exercise.html Tue, 10 Apr 2012 01:03:00 GMT http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/strategic_dialogue.html

Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs Kurt M. Campbell and Acting Assistant Secretary of Defense Peter Lavoy hosted New Zealand's Deputy Secretary of Foreign Affairs and Trade, David Walker, and Secretary of Defence, John McKinnon, for the 2012 U.S.-New Zealand Strategic Dialogue today as part of their ongoing bilateral dialogue.

The two countries discussed opportunities and challenges in the Asia-Pacific region. They reiterated their commitment to deepening the strategic partnership between the United States and New Zealand, as envisioned in the Wellington Declaration - which was signed in November 2010 by Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and New Zealand Foreign Minister Murray McCully.

The U.S. delegation included representatives from the Departments of State and Defense, the National Security Staff, and USAID. The New Zealand delegation included representatives from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Ministry of Defence, the New Zealand Defence Force, the National Assessments Bureau, and the New Zealand Embassy in Washington D.C. The two sides look forward to meeting again in the future. [read media release] ]]> http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/strategic_dialogue.html Mon, 19 Mar 2012 01:03:00 GMT http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/tonga.html

With the passing yesterday of King George Tupou V of Tonga, the United States has lost a friend and the people of Tonga have lost a visionary leader. Upon ascending to the throne, King George championed a process of peaceful democratization that led to the first majority elected Parliament of Tonga taking office in 2010. As I said when I met with the King at the U.S. Coast Guard Academy graduation last spring, Tonga is one of the United States' closest partners among the Pacific Island states and we are grateful for its role in Afghanistan, where Tonga makes an active contribution to the international coalition. On behalf of all Americans, I extend my deepest condolences to the Queen Mother Halaevalu Mata'aho, the Royal Family, and the people of Tonga on the passing of King George Tupou V. [view the statement] ]]> http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/tonga.html Mon, 19 Mar 2012 01:03:00 GMT http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2012/02/secretary-clinton-remembers-february-22nd/

I am in Christchurch participating in services marking the one-year anniversary of the tragic February 22, 2011 earthquake. I have been joined by several of my American colleagues including Al Dwyer from USAID, who headed the large US disaster response team that quickly airlifted into Christchurch to assist with search and rescue operations. I asked Al to return to New Zealand to lead our delegation with me because of the critical role he played in the days immediately following the quake.

Yesterday I attended the unveiling of the Tomb of the Unknowns. This morning Al and I participated in a commemoration service at Latimer Square, on the spot where the American and other working USAR teams camped last February. I then spoke at the opening of a commemorative garden in Christchurch's beautiful Botanic Gardens, one of my favorite places in the city. And now, as I record this introduction, Al and I are walking to Hagley Park for the main civic service of remembrance. [Read more] ]]> http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2012/02/secretary-clinton-remembers-february-22nd/ Tue, 21 Feb 2012 01:03:00 GMT http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2012/02/new-fulbright-board-lineup/

Those of you who have heard me speak more than once almost certainly know that I am a big booster of the Fulbright Program. Established in 1946 by the United States Congress, the Fulbright is intended to increase international understanding and advance the interests of peace and stability by sending American students overseas and bringing foreign students to America to study. [Read more] ]]> http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2012/02/new-fulbright-board-lineup/ Wed, 01 Feb 2012 01:03:00 GMT http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/streamvideo.html

[Watch it live here] ]]> http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/streamvideo.html Mon, 23 Jan 2012 01:03:00 GMT http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/twitter_qanda.html

On Friday, January 27 from 11am-12pm (New Zealand time), U.S. Ambassador to New Zealand and Samoa, David Huebner, will hold a Twitter Q&A on U.S.-New Zealand bilateral relations, U.S. engagement in the Pacific region, and U.S. support for human rights. [find out more here] ]]> http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/twitter_qanda.html Mon, 23 Jan 2012 01:03:00 GMT http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2011/12/consultations-in-washington/

I am in Washington this week for consultations. Each year I come back to HQ for a week or two to meet with colleagues at the State Department, officials in other agencies, Congressmen and staff on the Hill, think tank contacts, and NGO and business leaders working on issues relevant to projects at the Embassy. My short time in DC is always the most productive part of my year because of the efficient way in which face-to-face meetings can move projects forward, generate new ideas, obtain approvals, iron out priorities and schedules, and arrange funding. [read the blog post] ]]> http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2011/12/consultations-in-washington/ Wed, 21 Dec 2011 01:03:00 GMT http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2011/12/two-years-in-pictures/

My intrepid colleagues Ola, Renee, and Brendan and I have just completed a special project at the Embassy. We've pulled down the faded posters, old citations, and miscellaneous art from the walls. In place of all that, we've installed 70 poster-size photos of meaningful events and special moments from the Mission's past two years of activity. As a general matter, I think it's important to remind folks of the value and meaning of the work they do, and of how skilled they are at doing it. So, I plowed through my files and selected photos from many of the events in which the Embassy and Consulate General have been involved since I arrived, plus a couple of images from elsewhere to provide context. The slide show [that follows] contains all 70 photos in our new hallway exhibition: [read blog post/view slideshow] ]]> http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2011/12/two-years-in-pictures/ Sun, 18 Dec 2011 01:03:00 GMT http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2011/12/secretary-clinton-arrives-in-burma/

Yesterday Secretary Clinton stepped onto the tarmac at Nay Pyi Taw, marking the first visit to Burma by a US Secretary of State in more than half a century. Accompanying her are Assistant Secretary Kurt Campbell and a team of other Burma experts. [read blog post] ]]> http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2011/12/secretary-clinton-arrives-in-burma/ Thu, 01 Dec 2011 01:03:00 GMT http://www.cop17-cmp7durban.com/ What is COP?

Since the UNFCCC entered into force in 1995, the Conference of the Parties (COP) to the UNFCCC have been meeting annually to assess progress in dealing with climate change. The COP adopts decisions and resolutions, published in reports of the COP. Successive decisions taken by the COP make up a detailed set of rules for practical and effective implementation of the Convention.

What is CMP?

The COP serves as the meeting of the Parties to the Kyoto Protocol, which also adopts decisions and resolutions on the implementation of its provisions. This annual meeting is referred to as the Conference of the Parties serving as the meeting of the Parties to the Kyoto Protocol (CMP). However, Parties to the Convention that are not Parties to the Protocol are able to participate in the CMP as observers, but without the right to take decisions.

[visit official site] [read blog] ]]> http://www.cop17-cmp7durban.com/ Mon, 28 Nov 2011 01:03:00 GMT http://www.flickr.com/photos/us_embassy_newzealand/sets/72157628105732269/

View photos from the 2011 Downtown Community Thanksgiving Lunch [photos] ]]> http://www.flickr.com/photos/us_embassy_newzealand/sets/72157628105732269/ Mon, 28 Nov 2011 01:03:00 GMT http://www.apec.org/

APEC USA 2011 Leaders Week will take place in Honolulu, Hawai'i from November 8-13, 2011. Follow the links for more information.... [apec2011hawaii.com] [apec2011.gov]
]]> http://www.apec.org/ Thu, 04 Nov 2011 01:03:00 GMT http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/rugby_2011.html

U.S. Ambassador David Huebner said today the U.S. Government was working jointly with the Government of New Zealand to provide emergency fresh water supplies to the island nation of Tokelau, which is in danger of running out of water in less than a week.

Ambassador Huebner:

The U.S. Coast Guard is working in partnership with the New Zealand Defence Force and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to supply approximately 100,000 litres of drinking water to Tokelau, said Ambassador Huebner."The operation highlights the importance of cooperation between the U.S. Armed Forces and the NZDF in the Pacific.

The 225ft USCG Cutter Walnut was in American Samoa on a mission that includes maintenance of marine navigation aids when the New Zealand government requested assistance in moving humanitarian supplies to Tokelau. The Walnut will be transporting more than 36,000 gallons of drinking water to the stricken atolls, as well as a NZ-Government team that will be doing a needs-assessment, and working on long-term solutions to the water shortage created by the La Nina ocean current.

This evening the RNZAF will fly water supplies and personnel to American Samoa, where they will rendezvous with the Walnut for onward transport to Tokelau, said Huebner. The island nation does not have a useable airfield, making direct air missions impossible, and RNZN ships are currently more than a week away. "Fortunately the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Walnut is in the area, and working with our New Zealand partners we will be able to support the humanitarian needs of the people of Tokelau.

Tokelau is suffering severe fresh water shortages and the U.S. understood the need to act quickly, said the Ambassador.

Like New Zealand, the United States is committed to helping our Pacific neighbours when they are in need, said Ambassador Huebner. This is a very real humanitarian need here. We are talking about approximately 1,500 people who could be out of fresh water within a week so we really needed to act very quickly. [Click here (or above) for articles/photos/vidoes of the USA Eagles and the USMC Pacific Band at the RWC 2011]
]]> http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/rugby_2011.html Sun, 25 Sep 2011 01:03:00 GMT http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=139148172850657 NZIIA Wellington Branch October 2011 Events Notice:

Not a Chinese Century, An Indo-American One?

Dr Daniel Twining

Date & Time: 5.45pm Tuesday 3 October 2011

Venue: Lecture Theatre 1, Government Building, Victoria University of Wellington

Daniel Twining is Senior Fellow for Asia at the German Marshall Fund of the United States (GMF). He is also a consultant to the U.S. government on international security affairs. He previously served as a Member of the State Department's Policy Planning Staff, as Foreign Policy Advisor to Senator John McCain, and as a staff member of the United States Trade Representative. He holds a doctorate in international relations from Oxford University, an MPhil with distinction in East Asian international relations from Oxford, and a BA with highest distinction from the University of Virginia. Dr Twining is a regular contributor to Foreign Policy and the Weekly Standard and has written for the Washington Post, Financial Times, Times of India, Newsweek, the Washington Quarterly, and elsewhere, as well as in a range of academic journals and monographs. He is currently writing a book on U.S. grand strategy in Asia after the Cold War. He has lived in Asia, Europe, Latin America, and Africa.

The Wellington branch of the NZ Institute of International Affairs is grateful for the assistance of the Embassy of the United States of America.

For additional information on Wellington Branch meetings please contact Paul Bellamy via Paul.bellamy@parliament.govt.nz.

[View Facebook Event]
]]> http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=139148172850657 Tue, 27 Sep 2011 01:03:00 GMT http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/rugby_2011.html

[Click here (or above) for articles/photos/vidoes of the USA Eagles and the USMC Pacific Band at the RWC 2011]
]]> http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/rugby_2011.html Sun, 25 Sep 2011 01:03:00 GMT http://usrugbynz.com/eagles-supporters/

Scots College, in association with the New Zealand American Association, and the Embassy of the United States of America would like to invite you to an informal reception to meet the U.S. Eagles Rugby Team.

Wednesday, September 21, 2011, between 7:00- 8:30 pm
Please arrive by 6.45pm.

Food Provided.

Scots College Gymnasium
Monorgan Road
Strathmore, Wellington

Please register your interest to wellington.arc@state.gov or phone 04 462 6132 [View Facebook Event]
[Rugby Blog]
]]> http://usrugbynz.com/eagles-supporters/ Tue, 13 Sep 2011 01:03:00 GMT http://usrugbynz.com/

[Latest News]
[Latest Photos]
[Latest Videos]
[Latest Tweets]
]]> http://usrugbynz.com/ Tue, 13 Sep 2011 01:03:00 GMT http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/911_remarks.html

[9/11 - Coverage of the Memorial Services in New Zealand and the U.S. ]
]]> http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/911_remarks.html Tue, 13 Sep 2011 01:03:00 GMT http://usrugbynz.com/2011/09/05/the-eagles-have-landed/

The USA Eagles made quite the splash in Wanganui – literally.

After a powerful powhiri, a traditional Maori welcoming ceremony complete with a challenge by warriors, the Eagles took to the water. There they rowed a traditional waka, a war canoe, from the Putiki Marae to the boat ramp in Wanganui. Along the way thousands of locals cheered them on and welcomed them to New Zealand.

USA captain Todd Clever also presented each of his 30-man squad with their official Rugby World Cup 2011 cap. The ceremony at the Marae was a moving one. First the warriors challenged the Eagles party outside of the gates to the Maori community center. U.S. Ambassador David Huebner fronted up for the Eagles, picking up the rautapu – the symbolic offering – dropped by the warrior. [read more]
[view photos]
]]> http://usrugbynz.com/2011/09/05/the-eagles-have-landed/ Mon, 05 Sep 2011 01:03:00 GMT http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2011/08/art-in-embassies-exhibition-opens-in-wellington/

As I described in an earlier post, Art in Embassies is a decades-old program intended to create an ever-changing global museum of American art in diplomatic residences abroad. We added a new twist in Wellington by asking an emerging Kiwi artist (James Brown) and an emerging American artist (Nathan Huff) to select the art and curate the exhibition on my behalf.

That new approach introduced excitement but also a bit of risk into the project, since whatever was chosen would remain on the walls as long as I am Ambassador. The art has now arrived … the verdict is in … and I couldn't be happier. The individual works are dynamic and engaging. Taken together they interact in interesting ways, stir emotion, and provoke thought. [find out more]
[view art]
[photos of reception] ]]> http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2011/08/art-in-embassies-exhibition-opens-in-wellington/ Sun, 28 Aug 2011 01:03:00 GMT http://usrugbynz.com/

Check out U.S Embassy Wellington's rugby blog usrugbynz.com - countdown for the USA Eagles towards the Rugby World Cup in New Zealand, 2011. [go to website] ]]> http://usrugbynz.com/ Sun, 28 Aug 2011 03:03:00 GMT http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=207731065943153

Hawaiian Dance Performance - The Polynesian Cultural Centre

When: Thursday 4 August 2011 12:30pm-1pm

Where: The Marae, Level 4

Let a small group of performers from the Polynesian Cultural Center take you on a musical journey to the heart of the Pacific.

The Polynesian Cultural Centre http://www.polynesia.com/

Founded in 1963, the PCC has been the top visitor attraction in Hawai'i for the past 34 years. Set on 42 acres of Oahu's lush North Shore, the PCC features eight island villages that represent indigenous cultures from around the Pacific: Fiji, Hawai'i, Samoa, Tahiti, Tonga, Rapa Nui (Easter Island), the Marquesas, and Aotearoa (New Zealand). Through exhibits, demonstrations, and hands-on activities, visitors experience many aspects of traditional culture, including song, dance, and games. [find out more] ]]> http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=207731065943153 Thu, 21 Jul 2011 01:03:00 GMT http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/pm_john_key.html

President Obama will welcome Prime Minister John Key of New Zealand to the White House on Friday, July 22. The President looks forward to discussing with Prime Minister Key the close friendship and partnership between our two countries, our shared interest in stability, growth and effective regional institutions in the Asia Pacific , and our cooperation in addressing challenges like Afghanistan and Antarctica.

U.S. Ambassador Huebner will also be Washington DC during this visit. For the latest updates follow the Ambassador on Twitter, his blog, and other U.S. Embassy social channels. [find out more] ]]> http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/pm_john_key.html Thu, 21 Jul 2011 01:03:00 GMT http://blogs.state.gov/index.php/site/entry/a_christchurch_fourth

U.S. Embassy Wellington celebrated a special Fourth of July in Christchurch, where Ambassador David Huebner honored seven New Zealanders for the courage and commitment they had shown helping evacuate a large American delegation in the immediate aftermath of the devastating February 22 earthquake.

About 150 guests attended the ceremony, designed to show solidarity with the struggling city and to signal that Christchurch is open for business. Minister of Conservation Kate Wilkinson thanked Ambassador Huebner for hosting the event and giving Cantabrians a semblance of normality by having something to celebrate. The event was hosted in the northwest of the city in one of the few locations still able to cater to a larger party. [here is where you enter] ]]> http://blogs.state.gov/index.php/site/entry/a_christchurch_fourth Tue, 05 Jul 2011 01:03:00 GMT http://usrugbynz.com/photo-caption-competition/

You along with a mate have the chance to dine with the U.S. Ambassador to New Zealand and Samoa, David Huebner, along with the USA Eagles National rugby team at the U.S Ambassador's residence in Wellington. All you have to do is add a photo caption to the photo posted below for your chance to win this great prize.

Be creative, funny, informative. You can add your caption at usrugbynz.com , or on the U.S. Embassy's Facebook page, here. And you can enter as many times as you like!

The photo caption competition will be open until July 30, 2011, and the Public Affairs team at the U.S. Embassy in Wellington will decide on the winning caption.

Please read the terms and conditions before adding your caption.

The winner will be announced on this blog during the first week of August, 2011. [here is where you enter] ]]> http://usrugbynz.com/photo-caption-competition/ Mon, 27 Jun 2011 01:03:00 GMT http://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=10150284371313854

THE PRESIDENT: Good evening. Nearly 10 years ago, America suffered the worst attack on our shores since Pearl Harbor. This mass murder was planned by Osama bin Laden and his al Qaeda network in Afghanistan, and signaled a new threat to our security –- one in which the targets were no longer soldiers on a battlefield, but innocent men, women and children going about their daily lives.

In the days that followed, our nation was united as we struck at al Qaeda and routed the Taliban in Afghanistan. Then, our focus shifted. A second war was launched in Iraq, and we spent enormous blood and treasure to support a new government there. By the time I took office, the war in Afghanistan had entered its seventh year. But al Qaeda's leaders had escaped into Pakistan and were plotting new attacks, while the Taliban had regrouped and gone on the offensive. Without a new strategy and decisive action, our military commanders warned that we could face a resurgent al Qaeda and a Taliban taking over large parts of Afghanistan.

For this reason, in one of the most difficult decisions that I've made as President, I ordered an additional 30,000 American troops into Afghanistan. When I announced this surge at West Point, we set clear objectives: to refocus on al Qaeda, to reverse the Taliban's momentum, and train Afghan security forces to defend their own country. I also made it clear that our commitment would not be open-ended, and that we would begin to draw down our forces this July. [find out more] ]]> http://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=10150284371313854 Wed, 22 Jun 2011 01:03:00 GMT http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=180620785327793

Join the LIVE webchat 12pm JUNE 22, New Zealand time: Libraries, Social Media and Disaster Management - Mike Huff - Experiences from the Japanese Earthquake. [find out more] ]]> http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=180620785327793 Tue, 14 Jun 2011 01:03:00 GMT http://itunes.apple.com/podcast/u-s-embassy-wellington-new/id393785381

U.S. Consul Dana Deree gave a talk on the 12 Month Work and Travel program for students and recent grads. It is open to New Zealand and Australian students, and recent graduates. It allows up to one year of work and travel in the U.S. The podcast includes Dana's talk as well as a questions and answers session. [Listen to the podcast] ]]> http://itunes.apple.com/podcast/u-s-embassy-wellington-new/id393785381 Thu, 09 Jun 2011 01:03:00 GMT http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2011/06/in-samoa-for-independence-day/

I always enjoy visiting Samoa, but I particularly look forward to coming in June for Independence Day. This year was the 49th anniversary of the founding of the nation of Western Samoa, which later changed its name to the Independent State of Samoa.

Of course, Samoan history stretches back much farther than 49 years. Archaeologists tell us that humans first appeared in Samoa around 1500 BC, and Samoan oral history seems to extend back to at least 1000 AD. Since then there have been a variety of battles, influences, and governments … leading up to the seizure by New Zealand in 1914 of the Samoan islands held by Germany.

New Zealand occupied Western Samoa throughout World War I, and continued to administer the territory under a League of Nations mandate and then a United Nations trusteeship. An independence movement developed on Savai'i during the German period, spread to the other islands, and continued during the Kiwi administration. [Read More] ]]> http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2011/06/in-samoa-for-independence-day/ Thu, 09 Jun 2011 01:03:00 GMT https://statedeptasia.connectsolutions.com/p20433792/

Dr Frank Alcock talked about the political challenges and potential tradeoffs governments must consider when attempting to put a price on carbon emissions. Pricing carbon emissions is not the only mechanism through which governments can induce innovation and emissions reductions but they are a critical component of comprehensive green growth strategy. The status of New Zealand's ETS initiative was contrasted and compared to parallel efforts in Australia, the United States and European Union. [watch video] ]]> https://statedeptasia.connectsolutions.com/p20433792/ Thu, 02 Jun 2011 01:03:00 GMT http://www.ustr.gov/about-us/press-office/press-releases/2011/may/statement-ambassador-punke-world-trade-organization-tr
Discussions since Easter – in Montana, Paris, and here in Geneva – have brought us to a fork in the road for the Doha Round. Discussions among various configurations of ministers, senior officials, and permanent representatives have established a new and necessary realism and honesty about the difficulties facing our negotiation. And they have motivated us to begin a serious examination of practical, achievable steps that might lead us in a more hopeful direction. [read more] ]]> http://www.ustr.gov/about-us/press-office/press-releases/2011/may/statement-ambassador-punke-world-trade-organization-tr Thu, 02 Jun 2011 01:03:00 GMT http://www.flickr.com/photos/us_embassy_newzealand/collections/72157626844725562/
[photos/video] [U.S. Ambassador's Blog] ]]> http://www.flickr.com/photos/us_embassy_newzealand/collections/72157626844725562/ Tue, 31 May 2011 01:03:00 GMT http://usrugbynz.com/2011/06/01/a-battle-on-the-field-friendship-off-it/

The Keelhaulers of the California Maritime Academy gave it their best shot. Again and again.

But in the end the Fighting Billy Goats of Victoria University just had too much fire power. It was a crunching game with hit after hit making some in the crowd wince, but it was a fair game and one contested with great mutual respect. The 34-3 scoreline sounds worse than it was. The Keelhaulers left the game with their heads held high.

After the game – fought so fiercely that you were sure animus was involved – the two teams ate, drank and sang together like old friends. And that is the beauty of sport at its best. It forges an instant bond. You can skip the "how-do-you-dos?" and get on with the important stuff. [read more] [photos/video] ]]> http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/apec_2011.html Tue, 31 May 2011 01:03:00 GMT http://www.flickr.com/photos/us_embassy_newzealand/sets/72157626845430556/
[Memorial Day Service at Old St Paul's, Wellington - May 30, 2011.] [Memorial Day 30 May 2011, flag raising ceremony in Queen Elizabeth Park Paekakariki.] ]]> http://www.flickr.com/photos/us_embassy_newzealand/sets/72157626845430556/ Tue, 31 May 2011 01:03:00 GMT http://usrugbynz.com/2011/05/20/keelhaulers-vs-fighting-billy-goats-a-u-s-nz-match/

As part of our Rugby World Cup celebrations, we've organized a Rugby match between the Keelhaulers from the California Martitime Academy and the Fighting Billy Goats of Victoria University.

And, if you're in Wellington on May 31, you are invited to come along. The game will be played at the historic River Basin stadium, the site of international cricket matches, and will begin at 3 p.m. It's free.

The Keelhaulers will be sailing to Wellington aboard the Training Ship Golden Bear, docking at the Overseas Terminal on Sunday, May 29. On board will be almost 300 students and instructors from the prestigious California Maritime Academy. Located in Vallejo, near San Francisco, the Academy is recognized for excellence in the business, science, technology, engineering, operations, and policy aspects of the transportation industries. They are here at the personal invitation of U.S. Ambassador David Huebner.

He's looking forward to the game.

"The Keelhaulers are one of the best teams in the U.S.," Huebner said. "I expect it to be a close game."

The Keelhaulers vs. Fighting Billy Goats is part of the embassy's year-long RWC celebration that has already seen an exchange of Kiwi and Hawaiian Rugby coaches and the launch of this blog.

The Golden Bear will depart Wellington on June 1, but will be back in New Zealand when she visits Auckland on July 28 for a three-day visit. The Keelhaulers are expected to take part in another Rugby match there as well. [find out more] ]]> http://usrugbynz.com/2011/05/20/keelhaulers-vs-fighting-billy-goats-a-u-s-nz-match/ Thu, 18 May 2011 01:03:00 GMT http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/golden_bear.html

U.S. Ambassador David Huebner said today that he was very much looking forward to welcoming a group of about 250 students from his home state of California when their ship docks in Wellington at the end of the month.

"The best part of my job is making connections between young people in the U.S. and New Zealand. There is no better investment in the future than showing students the world and allowing them to interact freely with their peers elsewhere. Such contact enhances mutual understanding and facilitates problem-solving in powerful ways. "

"Part of the highly regarded California State University system, the California Maritime Academy is recognized for excellence in the business, science, technology, engineering, operations, and policy aspects of the transportation industries," explained the Ambassador. "The Academy is located in Vallejo, in the San Francisco Bay area, and its students regularly sail the Pacific as part of their training."

While the Golden Bear is docked in Wellington, the Cal Maritime students will meet with their Kiwi counterparts, visit local attractions, sample Kiwi culture, and play some rugby. The Academy's rugby team, the Keelhaulers, is scheduled to play an exhibition match against Victoria University's Fighting Billy Goats at the Basin Reserve on Tuesday 31 May.

"The Keelhaulers are one of the best university rugby teams in the U.S. Despite the small size of the school, they have been nationally ranked in club rugby and won the Pacific Coast League's Western Division Championship in 2009 and 2010,"said Ambassador Huebner "I expect it to be a close game."

The Keelhaulers / Fighting Billy Goats match is part of the Embassy's year-long Rugby World Cup celebration which has already seen an exchange of Kiwi and Hawaiian rugby coaches and the launch of a blog dedicated to American rugby, USRugbyNZ.com.

In the history of Cal Maritime, there have been three Golden Bears. The original Golden Bear visited New Zealand several times, first during WWII when it was the USS Crescent City. After exemplary service in defense of the Pacific, the Crescent City was transferred to the California Maritime Academy. Renamed the TS Golden Bear, the ship visited Auckland on training cruises in 1973 and 1976.

The current Golden Bear was built in the 1980s as a hydrographic research vessel. It was later refitted with living quarters, a library, and a gymnasium, and entered service as the California Maritime Academy training ship in 1996. [find out more] ]]> http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/golden_bear.html Thu, 18 May 2011 01:03:00 GMT http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/apec_2011.html Senior Officials of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) gathered from 21 economies in Big Sky, Montana, this week for the second round of US-hosted Senior Officials Meetings (SOM). They discussed progress made by APEC Working Groups and Committees since the first SOM took place in Washington, DC, in March. Work this year centers on three themes put forward by the United States as this year's APEC host: expanding trade, encouraging green growth, and strengthening regulatory cooperation and convergence.

The United States is aiming for more progress over the summer, so that the senior APEC officials can approve a robust package of recommendations at their next meeting in San Francisco, CA, in September, to be passed up to the leaders of the member economies in Honolulu in November. [find out more] ]]> http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/apec_2011.html Thu, 18 May 2011 01:03:00 GMT http://facebook.com/newzealand.usembassy On Thursday, May 19 at 11:40am EDT (3:40am NZ Time), the President will deliver a speech on the events in the Middle East and North Africa and U.S. policy in the region. The President will deliver his speech at the U.S. State Department, but you are invited to watch the speech online while engaging with others around the world.

A recording of the speech will be added to the U.S. Embassy Facebook page once it becomes available. [find out more]

UPDATE: view video: [find out more] ]]> http://facebook.com/newzealand.usembassy Wed, 18 May 2011 01:03:00 GMT http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/us_donations.html
James Cameron's Lightstorm Entertainment and Fox Filmed Entertainment, co-chaired by Jim Gianopulos and Tom Rothman, have collectively donated USD $1 million (NZD $1.26 million) towards the Appeal.

Warner Brothers, through Warner Bros. Video Ltd and Warner Bros Entertainment Australia Pty Limited, has donated USD $500,000 (NZD $633,557) to the Appeal.

[read more] ]]> http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/us_donations.html Wed, 18 May 2011 01:03:00 GMT http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/mccully.html
Today our two nations are united by shared history, common values, and strong bonds of mutual interest and respect. We've made remarkable progress in a short period of time in strengthening our relationship, one that I think it's fair to say was frozen for about 25 years – (laughter) – and we've moved beyond the old challenges and are looking to work together on the many issues that unite us. So I always look forward to meeting with Murray to go over where we are and where we are headed together.

[read more] ]]> http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/mccully.html Wed, 18 May 2011 01:03:00 GMT http://www.state.gov/r/pa/prs/ps/2011/05/163313.htm

Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton will deliver remarks on May 17 at the opening of the Secretary's Global Diaspora Forum, at the Department of State.

This three-day event, organized by the Secretary of State's Global Partnership Initiative in collaboration with USAID and the Migration Policy Institute, brings together over 300 leaders from diaspora communities across the country to discuss and collaborate on projects related to development and diplomacy with their countries of origin. [read more/watch video] ]]> http://www.state.gov/r/pa/prs/ps/2011/05/163313.htm Mon, 16 May 2011 01:03:00 GMT http://www.state.gov/secretary/rm/2011/05/163523.htm

SECRETARY CLINTON: Well, thank you very much. As you can guess from John's introductory remarks, we are very pleased this day has come. We are delighted at the extraordinary work that has been done across our government with the unveiling of this International Strategy for Cyberspace, and we look forward to partnering with our private sector, with other nations, and with others who share the goal that is set forth in this new document that really tries to achieve the goal that is set forth in the very beginning, and that is, the United States will work internationally to promote an open, interoperable, secure, and reliable information and communications infrastructure that supports international trade and commerce, strengthens international security, and fosters free expression and innovation. To achieve that goal, we will build and sustain an environment in which norms of responsible behavior guides states actions, sustains partnerships, and support the rule of law in cyberspace.

This is a policy that very much sums up what the United States seeks. Many of you representing the governments of other countries, as well as the private sector or foundations or civil society groups, share our commitment to ensuring that the internet remains open, secure, and free, not only for the 2 billion people who are now online, but for the billions more who will be online in the years ahead. [read more/watch video] ]]> http://www.state.gov/secretary/rm/2011/05/163523.htm Wed, 11 May 2011 01:03:00 GMT http://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2011/05/13/presidential-proclamation-world-trade-week

American businesses embody the ingenuity and entrepreneurship that has defined our Nation since its founding, and they consistently reinvent themselves to adapt to changing times. As we recover from a historic economic recession, enterprising commercial leaders continue to look beyond our borders to supply the world with innovative and technologically advanced products and services. Millions of jobs in the United States are tied to exports, and our world continues to grow more interdependent.

World Trade Week is a time to highlight the vital connection between the global economy and the prosperity of our own country. Our 21st-century economy requires American businesses and workers to compete in an international marketplace. To ensure our success, we must advance a robust, forward-looking trade agenda that emphasizes exports and domestic job growth. [read more]

Related:
Creating More Export Opportunities for American Small Businesses
USTR - Posted by Ambassador Ron Kirk on May 16, 2011 - As President Obama has proclaimed this week to be World Trade Week, I would like to take this opportunity to especially encourage small businesses across the country to consider the advantages of exporting to one of our trade agreement country partners. Over a quarter million American small businesses from every state sell goods and services to foreign customers around the globe, and these export sales sustain millions of well-paying American jobs.

In fact, the U.S. International Trade Commission estimates that both direct and indirect exports by small firms which supply inputs or services to larger companies supported four million jobs in the United States in 2007. That is why President Obama launched the National Export Initiative, with the goal of doubling U.S. exports and supporting millions of additional U.S. jobs by the end of 2014. [read more] ]]> http://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2011/05/13/presidential-proclamation-world-trade-week Wed, 11 May 2011 01:03:00 GMT http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=173293376058266

Nancy Hargrave Meislahn, Dean of Admission and Financial Aid, Wesleyan University Middletown Connecticut.

Nancy Hargrave Meislahn will be giving a talk about applying to universities in the United States for interested high school students, administrators, principals, career advisors, and parents. Nancy will give an overview of the US tertiary academic system and the process of admissions for non-US students to US institutions, applying for financial aid and understanding study in the liberal arts and sciences. She will also be taking questions from attendees and will have additional information available.

Venue and time: Queen Margaret College Auditorium 53 Hobson St., Thorndon, Wellington Thursday 26 May, 6-7pm.

RSVP: If you are interested in attending this presentation please send the following information to: Wellington.arc&state.gov by 25 May 2011.

-Name
-School or organization
-Title or year of study
-Contact phone number or email address


For more info about studying in the US see the information available at:newzealand.usembassy.gov. [read more]

If you are unable to make the presentation in Wellington, you can watch it and ask questions, live online. Find out more about the live webcast here. ]]> http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=173293376058266 Mon, 16 May 2011 01:03:00 GMT http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=152507304816043

Each year on the last Monday in May the United States of America honours all American service personnel who have died in time of war.

The New Zealand American Association invites you, your family and friends to a service in honour of American Memorial Day. [read more] ]]> http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=152507304816043 Wed, 11 May 2011 01:03:00 GMT http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=108575765896711 The U.S. Veterans Club of New Zealand will hold its annual U.S. Memorial Day Service at Auckland War Memorial Museum's Hall of Memories on Sunday, May 29 2010, at 2 p.m. The club has laid wreaths at the Auckland War Memorial Museum every year since 1948, and this year's commemoration will mark the 63rd anniversary of the first U.S. Memorial Day service in Auckland.

All are welcome to attend the ceremony at the Museum (you don't have to have a link to the U.S. military). But in particular, if there are veterans of U.S. military service in the region, Veterans' Club President Mike Riley would like them to come along – and to join the club, to help ensure this important link between the U.S. and New Zealand continues to be commemorated. [read more] ]]> http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=108575765896711 Wed, 11 May 2011 01:03:00 GMT http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=152507304816043

Each year on the last Monday in May the United States of America honours all American service personnel who have died in time of war.

The New Zealand American Association invites you, your family and friends to a service in honour of American Memorial Day. [read more] ]]> http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=152507304816043 Sun, 08 May 2011 01:03:00 GMT http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/nuclear_free.html
Regional nuclear weapon free zone agreements reinforce both the commitment of nations not to pursue nuclear weapons and the nearly 65-year record of their non-use. The protocols to the treaties, once ratified, will extend the policy of the United States not to use or threaten use of nuclear weapons against regional zone parties that are members of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty and in good standing with their non-proliferation obligations.

As a next step, the United States will engage parties to the two other regional agreements in force, in Southeast Asia and Central Asia, so that we can sign the protocols to those treaties as soon as possible. [read more] ]]> http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/nuclear_free.html Mon, 02 May 2011 01:03:00 GMT http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/travel_alert_may2011.html The U.S. Department of State alerts U.S. citizens traveling and residing abroad to the enhanced potential for anti-American violence following recent counter- terrorism activity in Pakistan. Given the uncertainty and volatility of the current situation, U.S. citizens in areas where recent events could cause anti-American violence are strongly urged to limit their travel outside of their homes and hotels and avoid mass gatherings and demonstrations. U.S. citizens should stay current with media coverage of local events and be aware of their surroundings at all times. This Travel Alert expires August 1, 2011. [read more] ]]> http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/travel_alert_may2011.html Mon, 02 May 2011 01:03:00 GMT http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/bin_laden.html

Today President Obama announced the death of Osama Bin Laden.

"I cannot put it better than the President put it when he said: The American people did not choose this fight. It came to our shores and started with the senseless slaughter of our citizens. After nearly 10 years of service, struggle and sacrifice, we know well the costs of war," said Ambassador Huebner.

"The United States is not, and never will be, at war with any faith. We are at war with al Qaeda, a terrorist organization that is committed to killing as many innocents as it can. This is by no means the end of our effort against al Qaeda and its objectives."

"Multiple streams of intelligence led us to the assessment that Bin Laden was located in Abbottabad, protected by two of his closest facilitators," explained the Ambassador.

"Bin Laden was a danger to all humanity. This is a victory for all who seek to live in peace, security, and dignity. Bin Laden dedicated his life to destroying innocent lives and human progress. His demise will ultimately make all people safer, and empower those around the world who seek to build and not to destroy." [read statement] [watch President Obama's statement] ]]> http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/bin_laden.html Mon, 02 May 2011 01:03:00 GMT http://www.facebook.com/notes/us-embassy-new-zealand/press-freedom-how-far-have-we-come-and-where-are-we-going/10150229468488854

Join us online for our World Press Freedom Day webcast and webchat series. Hosted for the first time by the United States, this year's theme is "21st Century Media: New Frontiers, New Barriers," following on Secretary Hillary Clinton's commitment to Internet freedom and acknowledging the increasingly important role of social media and citizen reporters.

The U.S. Department of State's Bureau of International Information Programs will bring you live webchats and webcasts with experts, opinion-makers and activists in today's 21st century media environment. Through a variety of platforms, we invite you to engage in this important conversation. [find out more] ]]> http://www.facebook.com/notes/us-embassy-new-zealand/press-freedom-how-far-have-we-come-and-where-are-we-going/10150229468488854 Sun, 01 May 2011 03:03:00 GMT http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2011/04/guest-post-how-i-learned-to-stop-worrying-and-love-the-copy/

Every now and then I come across a post that I really like on another blog. I read one like that yesterday, on an intellectual property blog written by James Gannon. He took a humorous but thought-provoking foray into the sometimes controversial issue of copyright protection.

James is an attorney in the Technology Group at McCarthy Tιtrault, a large Canadian law firm. Based in the firm's Toronto office, James specializes in IP, technology, and Internet matters. He graduated with distinction from the University of Waterloo with a B.A.Sc. (Hons.) in System Design Engineering, and earned his LLB from Osgoode Hall Law School. [read the post] ]]> http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2011/04/guest-post-how-i-learned-to-stop-worrying-and-love-the-copy/ Thu, 28 Apr 2011 03:03:00 GMT http://www.flickr.com/photos/us_embassy_newzealand/sets/72157626416885073/

The Embassy's Marines joined their New Zealand and Australian counterparts on the streets of Wellington on Poppy Day, the morning of Thursday 21 April, 2011. [watch video] [view photos] ]]> http://www.flickr.com/photos/us_embassy_newzealand/sets/72157626416885073/ Wed, 20 Apr 2011 03:03:00 GMT http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2011/04/twelve-month-work-and-travel-program-for-students-and-recent-grads/

In my career I have traveled to more than 60 countries and spent substantial time working in places like Tokyo, London, Los Angeles, Paris, Hong Kong, Shanghai, and New York.

The ongoing professional adventure started when I took a leave of absence from Yale Law School to travel to Tokyo as a Henry Luce Scholar to work in the Japanese Diet for a year. What looked to my family and friends like a detour became one of the key turning points in my life.

That's why I'm such a big proponent of exchange programs, travel breaks, work/study programs, and the like for students. Immersing yourself in a new environment while relatively young can teach you a lot about yourself, focus and reorient your thinking, and open unimagined and life-changing possibilities. [read more] [more about the program] ]]> http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2011/04/twelve-month-work-and-travel-program-for-students-and-recent-grads/ Tue, 19 Apr 2011 03:03:00 GMT http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2011/04/moots-regattas-rugby-robots-students-bicycles-northland-clendon-house-and-more/

Those of you who follow me on Twitter know that I've just gotten back to New Zealand from a week in Hong Kong serving as an arbitrator at the 8th Annual Willem Vis (East) International Commercial Arbitration Moot. I sat for hearings with 24 of the 87 law school teams participating, which included students from India, Australia, Japan, Hong Kong, the United States, Indonesia, Slovenia, Germany, and Vietnam. [read more] ]]> http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2011/04/moots-regattas-rugby-robots-students-bicycles-northland-clendon-house-and-more/ Mon, 18 Apr 2011 03:03:00 GMT http://usrugbynz.com/2011/04/18/st-heliers-mt-albert-adopt-usa-eagles/

I know we're not supposed to be biased, but do you know what our favorite parts of Auckland are?

That's easy: St. Heliers and Mt. Albert.

These two business districts have adopted the USA Eagles for the Rugby World Cup.

The event was the launch of Auckland's Adopt-a-Second-Team programme, which aims to link Auckland communities with the 19 teams coming to New Zealand to compete in Rugby World Cup 2011. The program was kicked off in the seaside village of St Helier's – which also happens to be supporting the USA Eagles in RWC 2011 (in fact, thirty-four different local centers have signed up to take part in Adopt-a-Second-Team.... [read more] ]]> http://usrugbynz.com/2011/04/18/st-heliers-mt-albert-adopt-usa-eagles/ Mon, 18 Apr 2011 03:03:00 GMT http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2011/04/getting-serious-about-climate-science-2/

February 24, 2011: President #Obama just finished talking with Prime Minister Key to assess whether more assistance is needed. #eqnz #CHCH Thursday, 24 February 2011 12:22:58 p.m.

That is one of the many tweets I posted during the hours and days immediately after the Christchurch earthquake. Yes, I am the U.S. Ambassador to New Zealand and Samoa. And yes, I tweet regularly, sometimes several times a day.

Have you heard of the phrase "21st Century Statecraft"? It's a philosophy developed by Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and involves complementing traditional foreign policy tools with new instruments of statecraft that fully leverage the networks, technologies, and demographics of our interconnected world. In other words…using social media as a major form of outreach

Back in 2010, Secretary Clinton stated, " …we find ourselves living at a moment in human history when we have the potential to engage in these new and innovative forms of diplomacy and to also use them to help individuals be empowered for their own development." She was right, and the empowerment aspect was and is revolutionary, as current events continue to show.

Here at U.S. Embassy Wellington we didn't need to be pushed or cajoled. We instinctively recognized the potential to engage using social media, and have been using social media for the past two years. [read more] ]]> http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2011/04/getting-serious-about-climate-science-2/ Wed, 13 Apr 2011 03:03:00 GMT http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2011/04/getting-serious-about-climate-science-2/

Today I'd like to introduce you to Erik M. Conway, a fellow Californian who came to Wellington earlier this month to give a keynote speech at the Climate Futures Forum. Hosted at Te Papa, the Forum was organized by Victoria University's New Zealand Climate Change Research Institute. Erik M. Conway. Click through for image source.

Erik is an historian of science and technology at the California Institute of Technology. He studies and documents the history of space exploration, and examines the intersections of space science, Earth science, and technological change.

He has written several books including Merchants of Doubt: How a Handful of Scientists Obscured the Truth on Issues from Tobacco Smoke to Global Warming, which he co-authored with Naomi Oreskes. He has received a variety of awards for his work, including from NASA and from the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics.

As Earth Day is fast approaching, I thought it might be interesting and useful to ask Erik a few questions about his research and about the future of climate science. [read more] ]]> http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2011/04/getting-serious-about-climate-science-2/ Wed, 13 Apr 2011 03:03:00 GMT http://usrugbynz.com/2011/04/13/rugbys-greatest-olympian-dan-carroll/

In the run-up to this year's Rugby World Cup, I thought I'd share every now and then one of my favorite American rugby stories. Of course, the only proper way to start is with the legendary Daniel Carroll. By Ambassador David Huebner

As I've mentioned before, the United States Eagles are the two-time defending Olympic rugby gold medalists. What I haven't mentioned, and what too few people recall these days, is that rugby's greatest Olympian — Dan Carroll — had a hand in both of those US gold medals.

In the interests of full disclosure, I should mention that our Australian friends claim Dan as well. He was born in Flemington, Victoria, and won a rugby gold medal for the Australasians in 1908.

When the Wallabies later went on tour in the United States, he decided to stay on in America. He settled into American life and became a naturalized US citizen. When World War I broke out, he joined the US Army as a lieutenant, winning a Distinguished Service Cross.

After the war, Carroll went to Stanford University, in my home state of California. He studied geology and coached rugby at the university.[read more] ]]> http://usrugbynz.com/2011/04/13/rugbys-greatest-olympian-dan-carroll/ Wed, 13 Apr 2011 03:03:00 GMT http://samoa.usembassy.gov/peace_corp_50.html

THE WHITE HOUSE Office of the Press Secretary:

March 30, 2011

In 1961, President John F. Kennedy signed an Executive Order establishing the Peace Corps, forever changing the way America sees the world and the world sees us. Today, one of President Kennedy's most enduring legacies can be found in the over 200,000 current and returned Peace Corps Volunteers who have collectively given over a half-century of service to the cause of peace. On its 50th anniversary, the United States Peace Corps remains an enduring symbol of our Nation's commitment to encouraging progress, creating opportunity, and fostering mutual respect and understanding throughout the world. [read more]



Celebrations in Samoa of Peace Corps 50th Anniversary worldwide and 44years in Samoa Launched: The patron of celebrations Her Highness Masiofo Filifilia, U.S. Embassy Apia Chargι d'Affaires and Peace Corps Director Dale Withington launched story, picture and photo competition was announced for stories of PC work in Samoa and Samoans experiences in the past four decades-- deadline on May 20. The winning pieces will be collated in a PC Samoa booklet to be launched at the festivities of the Fourth of July. This year's Embassy Fourth of July will highlight PC contribution in the world and Samoa. [find out more] ]]> http://samoa.usembassy.gov/peace_corp_50.html Thu, 31 Mar 2011 03:03:00 GMT http://www.pacificvoyagers.org/about-project/goal/

From: [pacificvoyagers.org]:

We're sailing across the Pacific to renew our ties to the sea and its life-sustaining strength. The ocean is the origin of life, and it continues to give us air to breathe, fish to eat, and nourishes our soul as well. As threatened as the ocean is now, however, it soon can no longer provide us with these essential life services.

Sailing together, we seek the wisdom of our ancestors and the knowledge of scientists to keep the Pacific healthy and give our grandchildren a future.

We have chosen a motto for the whole project, which reflects the spiritual thinking in Polynesian culture about the sea, which has the same life-force running through its water as runs through our bodies, and how to treat this precious resource to not disturb Tangaroa, the God of the Sea. The following saying is a poetic way to say "be respectful and gentle":

"Move your paddle silently through the water"

Find out more and follow their journey at: [pacificvoyagers.org] [on Twitter] [on Facebook] ]]> http://www.pacificvoyagers.org/about-project/goal/ Tue, 29 Mar 2011 03:03:00 GMT http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2011/03/secretary-clinton-talks-about-the-international-community%E2%80%99s-efforts-to-protect-libyan-citizens/

The situation in Libya is constantly changing, but remarks made by Secretary Clinton a couple days ago about the reasons for American involvement remain relevant and compelling. She provided an update on the international community's efforts to implement U.N. Security Council Resolutions 1970 and 1973 and to protect civilians in Libya from military attack by their own government. Rather than paraphrase her words, I thought that I'd share them directly here: [read more and share your thoughts] ]]> http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2011/03/secretary-clinton-talks-about-the-international-community%E2%80%99s-efforts-to-protect-libyan-citizens/ Mon, 28 Mar 2011 03:03:00 GMT http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2011/03/dealing-with-post-quake-stress/
More than a month has now passed since the Christchurch earthquake. In some respects that seems like a long time, but it really isn't.

You can still be experiencing stress, anxiety, or depression directly related to the trauma of February 22nd, even if you were not physically in Christchurch yourself. I'm seeing evidence of that among colleagues here in my own workplace. I'm also seeing evidence that some folks think everyone should just be 'over it' by now. [read more] ]]> http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2011/03/dealing-with-post-quake-stress/ Thu, 24 Mar 2011 03:03:00 GMT http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2011/03/chiefs-of-mission-convene-in-washington/

Earlier this year Secretary Clinton convened our first-ever Global Chiefs of Mission Conference at the Department of State in Washington. The Conference brought together in one place all of our U.S. Ambassadors from around the world in order to discuss current events, diplomatic best practices, and a variety of other topics. Everyone traveled in, except for a couple of colleagues who were attending to kinetic situations at their posts. [read more] ]]> http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2011/03/chiefs-of-mission-convene-in-washington/ Tue, 22 Mar 2011 03:03:00 GMT http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/chch_quake_info4.html

Christchurch Earthquake Information and resources. [click through for the latest] ]]> http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/chch_quake_info4.html Mon, 21 Mar 2011 03:03:00 GMT http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2011/02/hinemoana%E2%80%99s-back/

I was delighted to receive this week a letter from our good friend Christopher Merrill, Director of the prestigious International Writing Program (IWP) at the University of Iowa, conveying how much he enjoyed having Hinemoana Baker in his most recent group of visitors.

As I wrote about last June, the IWP is a 10-week program that pulls together dynamic writers from around the world to give readings and lectures, work on individual and joint projects, and engage with American audiences. We worked hard last year to send Hinemoana, who was the 15th Kiwi to participate in the program's 43-year history. [read more] ]]> http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2011/02/hinemoana%E2%80%99s-back/ Thu, 17 Feb 2011 03:03:00 GMT http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/campbell_nz_visit.html

Assistant Secretary for East Asian and Pacific Affairs Kurt M. Campbell will travel to Christchurch, New Zealand and Canberra, Australia February 20-24, 2011.

In Christchurch February 21-23, Assistant Secretary Campbell will meet with New Zealand Foreign Minister Murray McCully and participate in the U.S.-New Zealand Partnership Forum. The Forum brings together government and private sector leaders from both countries to discuss ways the U.S. and New Zealand can work together, both bilaterally and in the Asia-Pacific. Assistant Secretary Campbell will also participate in a trilateral discussion with Australia and New Zealand on regional issues of mutual interest. [read more] ]]> http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/campbell_nz_visit.html Thu, 17 Feb 2011 03:03:00 GMT http://www.state.gov/r/pa/prs/ps/2011/02/156628.htm

Secretary Clinton will deliver remarks at the first ever Strategic Dialogue with Civil Society on Feb. 16, at approximately 10:00 a.m. EST (4am February 17, New Zealand time) at the Department of State.

Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton will deliver remarks at the first ever Strategic Dialogue with Civil Society on Wednesday, February 16, at approximately 10:00 a.m., in the Benjamin Franklin Room at the Department of State. Following her remarks, Secretary Clinton will lead the plenary session of the Dialogue with civil society representatives from more than 20 countries and senior Administration officials. Civil society representatives will also participate in the event via interactive video conferences at 50 embassies around the world. In Washington DC, civil society representatives taking part in the Dialogue will include Sherif Mansour of Egypt and Sima Samar of Afghanistan. [read more] ]]> http://www.state.gov/r/pa/prs/ps/2011/02/156628.htm Tue, 15 Feb 2011 03:03:00 GMT http://www.state.gov/secretary/rm/2011/02/156619.htm

Thank you all very much and good afternoon. It is a pleasure, once again, to be back on the campus of the George Washington University, a place that I have spent quite a bit of time in all different settings over the last now nearly 20 years. I'd like especially to thank President Knapp and Provost Lerman, because this is a great opportunity for me to address such a significant issue, and one which deserves the attention of citizens, governments, and I know is drawing that attention. And perhaps today in my remarks, we can begin a much more vigorous debate that will respond to the needs that we have been watching in real time on our television sets.

A few minutes after midnight on January 28th, the internet went dark across Egypt. During the previous four days, hundreds of thousands of Egyptians had marched to demand a new government. And the world, on TVs, laptops, cell phones, and smart phones, had followed every single step. Pictures and videos from Egypt flooded the web. On Facebook and Twitter, journalists posted on-the-spot reports. Protestors coordinated their next moves. And citizens of all stripes shared their hopes and fears about this pivotal moment in the history of their country. [read more] [watch video] ]]> http://www.state.gov/secretary/rm/2011/02/156619.htm Tue, 15 Feb 2011 03:03:00 GMT http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/chch_forum.html

Janet Napolitano, the U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security, will be attending the Fourth United States New Zealand Partnership Forum in Christchurch February 20-22.

"We are delighted that the U.S. delegation will be led by a member of President Obama's Cabinet. Coming only four months after Secretary Clinton's visit, Secretary Napolitano's visit underscores the growing scope and critical importance of the relationship between the two countries," said U.S. Ambassador David Huebner. [read more] [more on the Fourth United States New Zealand Partnership Forum in Christchurch] ]]> http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/chch_forum.html Mon, 14 Feb 2011 03:03:00 GMT http://blogs.america.gov/bythepeople/2011/02/08/civil-society-and-social-media/

The term "civil society" can seem almost as amorphous as the term "social media." Yet the two are becoming ever more powerfully linked to the promotion of democracy and human rights in the modern world.

Civil society can encompass any collection of nongovernmental activists, organizations, congregations, writers and/or reporters. They bring a broad range of opinions to the marketplace of ideas and are considered critical to a vibrant, well-functioning democracy. Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton has described a free civil society as the third critical element to democracy – the other two being a representative government and a well-functioning market.

Social media consists of forms of electronic communication – typically using Internet- and mobile-based tools – which allow the creation of online communities to share information and ideas. [read more] Join in: webchat with Secretary of State Hillary Clinton ]]> http://blogs.america.gov/bythepeople/2011/02/08/civil-society-and-social-media/ Mon, 14 Feb 2011 03:03:00 GMT http://www.state.gov/s/d/rm/c6112.htm

Deputy Secretary Thomas Nides briefed the press on the Fiscal Year 2012 budget for the State Department and USAID. Watch for Replay. [read more] ]]> http://www.state.gov/s/d/rm/c6112.htm Mon, 14 Feb 2011 03:03:00 GMT http://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2011/02/11/remarks-president-egypt

THE PRESIDENT: Good afternoon, everybody. There are very few moments in our lives where we have the privilege to witness history taking place. This is one of those moments. This is one of those times. The people of Egypt have spoken, their voices have been heard, and Egypt will never be the same.

By stepping down, President Mubarak responded to the Egyptian people's hunger for change. But this is not the end of Egypt's transition. It's a beginning. I'm sure there will be difficult days ahead, and many questions remain unanswered. But I am confident that the people of Egypt can find the answers, and do so peacefully, constructively, and in the spirit of unity that has defined these last few weeks. For Egyptians have made it clear that nothing less than genuine democracy will carry the day. [read more] ]]> http://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2011/02/11/remarks-president-egypt Mon, 14 Feb 2011 03:03:00 GMT http://fpc.state.gov/155878.htm

Related to NZ and the Pacific:



I'm happy to talk about specifics associated with that trip, but I should just say last week I was in Hawaii and Southeast Asia. I think part of what we are trying to do is send a very clear message that, of course, U.S.-China relations are important, but they are embedded in a broader, wider region, and we are deeply committed not only to our security partners in Northeast Asia, a strong relationship with China, but taking steps to underscore our commitment to renew the engagement in Southeast Asia and also the Pacific.

Too often when we say the Asian Pacific region, the word that gets short shrift in that is the Pacific, and so one of the things that we did in Hawaii was meet a series of our ambassadors in other countries, Pacific nations, who are in many respects suffering from real challenges in terms of climate change, some issues associated with poverty and disease. The United States has taken efforts in the course of last year so to reengage in terms of USAID programs and a variety of steps to underscore an enduring American commitment to the security, to the health and the well-being of the people of the Pacific.

We also had a chance for trilateral coordination between the United States, Australia, and New Zealand. I think as you all have seen that over the course of the last year, we have rebuilt our relationship with New Zealand after a period in which we had very little security interaction. And we are now working closely together on a range of issues. Those discussions between the three nations centered on not only developments in Northeast Asia but developments associated with Fiji and other island nations and developments in the South Pacific.

On APEC:

Later this year, President Obama will represent for the first time the United States at the East Asia summit. We think that's very significant. We also hold a next round of our U.S.-ASEAN partnership meeting at the head-of-states level. And of course, 2011, the United States is holding and hosting the APEC meeting in Hawaii, in which we are looking to streamline the agenda and make clear the continuing relevance of APEC as an institution in the Asian Pacific region.

So incredibly busy sessions. Secretary Clinton will be hosting her counterparts, along with Secretary Geithner, for next round of the Strategic Economic Dialogue in May. And you will have seen, when President Hu visited, that the United States has announced that Vice President Biden will be going to Asia later this year to meet with the future leader of China as part of a counterpart visit. So we recognize that even with all the challenges and difficulties that we are confronting currently in the Middle East that it is extraordinarily important to underscore that the United States recognizes very clearly that the 21st century is going to be being played out in the Asian Pacific region. [read more] ]]> http://fpc.state.gov/155878.htm Tue, 08 Feb 2011 03:03:00 GMT http://usrugbynz.com/2011/02/09/hawkins-sevens-is-going-to-be-huge/ [read more] [view video] ]]> http://usrugbynz.com/2011/02/09/hawkins-sevens-is-going-to-be-huge/ Tue, 08 Feb 2011 03:03:00 GMT http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/clinton_waitangi_day_message.html [read more] ]]> http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/clinton_waitangi_day_message.html Tue, 08 Feb 2011 03:03:00 GMT http://usrugbynz.com/2011/02/03/everybody-loves-a-parade/ [read more] [view video] ]]> http://usrugbynz.com/2011/02/03/everybody-loves-a-parade/ Wed, 02 Feb 2011 03:03:00 GMT http://usrugbynz.com/2011/02/03/wigging-out-in-wellington/
I'm apparently meeting two Troy Polamalus – friends from the Pacific islands dressing up as the legendary Pittsburgh Steeler strong safety – and an Uncle Sam.

The annual tournament – played here since 1999 – is the town's excuse to go a little wild. More than 30,000 people come to Wellington for the tournament and even those without tickets head downtown in costume to let their hair down – or to don a wig. [read more] [view video] ]]> http://usrugbynz.com/2011/02/03/wigging-out-in-wellington/ Wed, 02 Feb 2011 03:03:00 GMT http://usrugbynz.com/2011/02/02/from-nfl-gridiron-to-u-s-a-rugby-sevens/

Until July, Miles Craigwell had never touched a Rugby ball. Yes, July of 2010. Now he's playing sevens for the U.S.A. Eagle.

Cut by the Miami Dolphins and faced with the choice of being a practise football player, Craigwell headed back to his native Boston. At just 24, Craigwell, who'd been a stellar college football player in the Ivy League at Brown University, was left to contemplate his future. [read more] [view video] [view photos] ]]> http://usrugbynz.com/2011/02/02/from-nfl-gridiron-to-u-s-a-rugby-sevens/ Tue, 01 Feb 2011 03:03:00 GMT http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2011/01/thank-you-sargent-shriver/

We lost a great American and a pivotal figure in mid 20th Century humanitarian progress on January 18th, when Robert Sargent Shriver, Jr. died at age 95. A man of sharp intellect, great compassion, and tireless energy, Sargent Shriver devoted his prodigious talents to serving others over many decades. In the process, he enriched the lives of generations at home and abroad and helped define the best of what America stands for. [read more] ]]> http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2011/01/thank-you-sargent-shriver/ Tue, 01 Feb 2011 03:03:00 GMT http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=186194518068524'ref=mf

After being based in Taranaki for the past few years, AmeriCARna Hutt City will bring in excess of 400 American cars, along with drivers, passengers, supporters, and enthusiasts for four full-on days of action! Highlights include the Friday Night Cruise down Jackson Street in Petone from 6pm – 11pm on Friday 25 February, and the Country Fair in the Lower Hutt Civic Centre from 10am – 4pm on Saturday 26 February. [find out more] [watch video from 2010 AmeriCARna event in Taranaki] ]]> http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=186194518068524'ref=mf Sun, 30 Jan 2011 03:03:00 GMT http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2011/01/ambassador-rapp-in-town/ As part of keeping you apprised of activities and efforts related to the Wellington Declaration, I will occasionally mention visitors from the U.S. who might not be noted in the traditional media. Over the past year the number of working visits by American academics, jurists, scientists, other experts, and officials has more than quadrupled. Although they do not galvanize attention the way a Cabinet arrival does, such visits are the sinews of a strong bilateral relationship. They are also often intensely interesting because of the special expertise that the visitors possess.

This week we are very fortunate to have with us my colleague Ambassador Stephen J. Rapp, Ambassador-at-Large for War Crimes Issues. The Ambassador is in town discussing with our Kiwi counterparts current global hot spots and certain joint international efforts. [read more] [watch video] ]]> http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2011/01/ambassador-rapp-in-town/ Thu, 27 Jan 2011 03:03:00 GMT http://usrugbynz.com/2011/01/27/usa-mens-eagle-team-named-for-welly-sevens/

USA Men's Eagle Sevens coach, Al Caravelli, has announced the 12-man squad he will take to Wellington and Las Vegas for the next two stages in the HSBC Sevens World Series. Caravelli said that camp was extremely productive and a good indication of the mental preparedness of the squad.

Two-a-day trainings and stiff competition were on the program for the current player pool.

"We have worked a lot on defense, communication and mental strength, the latter being one of the highlights of the camp," said Caravelli. "Focusing on our goal of keeping a consistent core of players, we made only three changes between the last tournament and the Wellington and Las Vegas stages." [read more] ]]> http://usrugbynz.com/2011/01/27/usa-mens-eagle-team-named-for-welly-sevens/ Wed, 26 Jan 2011 03:03:00 GMT http://www.whitehouse.gov/state-of-the-union-2011

Watch the 2011 State of the Union Address LIVE online: [find out more] ]]> http://www.whitehouse.gov/state-of-the-union-2011 Mon, 24 Jan 2011 03:03:00 GMT http://usrugbynz.com/2011/01/21/the-eagles-are-about-to-land/

The U.S. Men's Eagle Sevens team will be arriving in Wellington the last week of this month. Expectations are high. The Sevens game suits the United States, known for the speed and stamina of its Rugby players. Now that the game will be added to the Olympics, in 2016 in Rio de Janeiro, there will be even more focus on Sevens in the United States.

The Americans have had some success at the Wellington Sevens tournament, which begins Feb. 4, winning the Shield both last year and in 2008. There are four main prizes to be won at a Sevens tournament. The overall winners receive the Cup, then, in descending order of prestige, there is the bowl, the plate and the shield. [read more] ]]> http://usrugbynz.com/2011/01/21/the-eagles-are-about-to-land/ Thu, 20 Jan 2011 03:03:00 GMT http://www.whitehouse.gov/blog/2011/01/19/president-obama-welcomes-president-hu-china-white-house

At a time when some doubt the benefits of cooperation between the United States and China, this visit is also a chance to demonstrate a simple truth. We have an enormous stake in each other's success. In an interconnected world, in a global economy, nations -- including our own -- will be more prosperous and more secure when we work together.

The United States welcomes China's rise as a strong, prosperous and successful member of the community of nations. Indeed, China's success has brought with it economic benefits for our people as well as yours, and our cooperation on a range of issues has helped advance stability in the Asia Pacific and in the world. [more] [remarks at arrival] [White House briefing] ]]> http://www.whitehouse.gov/blog/2011/01/19/president-obama-welcomes-president-hu-china-white-house Wed, 19 Jan 2011 03:03:00 GMT http://www.america.gov/st/peacesec-english/2011/January/20110118143101elrem0.7776301.html

Washington — President Obama and President Hu Jintao of China will discuss global and regional security concerns, economic and trade issues, human rights and related bilateral issues during a one-day state visit January 19 at the White House.

This will be the eighth face-to-face meeting between Obama and Hu, says a senior White House official, and the president also has met three times with Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao. These meetings reflect a pace and intensity of engagement with Chinese leaders that illustrates the depth, breadth and importance of the U.S.-China relationship, he added. [read more] ]]> http://www.america.gov/st/peacesec-english/2011/January/20110118143101elrem0.7776301.html Wed, 19 Jan 2011 03:03:00 GMT http://usrugbynz.com/2011/01/14/the-wellington-sevens/

Wellington is girding itself for the arrival of the Sevens Tournament. More than one wag has referred to the Sevens Weekend as Wellington's Mardi Gras. There are even beads.

The tournament, in which the United States is participating, will be held Feb. 4 and Feb. 5 at Westpac Stadium. ?It's the third of eight IRB Sevens World Series events. [usarugby blog] ]]> http://usrugbynz.com/2011/01/14/the-wellington-sevens/ Wed, 19 Jan 2011 03:03:00 GMT http://usrugbynz.com/2011/01/07/putin-to-attend-usa-russia-game/ here.

This will certainly raise the profile of a game both teams think they can win. [usarugby blog] ]]> http://usrugbynz.com/2011/01/07/putin-to-attend-usa-russia-game/ Thu, 06 Jan 2011 03:03:00 GMT http://usrugbynz.com/2011/01/06/this-eagle-has-deep-kiwi-roots/

Junior Sifa, who helped the USA Eagles qualify for the Rugby World Cup with a try against Uruguay, moved to New Zealand when he was nine. A former Nelson Bays player, Sifa is hoping to play in front of a hometown crowd when the U.S. take on Italy in Nelson on September 27 in the big tournament. [read more] ]]> http://usrugbynz.com/2011/01/06/this-eagle-has-deep-kiwi-roots/ Thu, 06 Jan 2011 03:03:00 GMT http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2011/01/los-angeles-101-continued/

As I was about to say in my last post – before New Year's Eve intervened – Dr McWaine and I live in the Hollywood district, which is near the geographic center of Los Angeles. We are just up one of the hills behind the famous Grauman's Chinese Theater. I love the neighborhood because it's a microcosm of the diversity of L.A. and a wonderful mix of urban and wild environments. [read more] ]]> http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2011/01/los-angeles-101-continued/ Thu, 06 Jan 2011 03:03:00 GMT http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/12/%C2%A1viva-el-pueblo-de-nuestra-senora-la-reina-de-los-angeles-del-rio-de-porciuncula/

For more than a decade my work has involved frequent travel, and I have periodically lived overseas for extended periods of time. However long or short my absence or exciting my trip, I am always thrilled to arrive back home in Los Angeles.

My current visit has been no exception. Despite the lengthy series of flights and the usual indignities and inconveniences of air travel, I stepped off my flight at 6:35 a.m. with a spring in my step and a smile on my face. I breathed in and exhaled deeply, and slipped easily back into L.A. life … [read more] ]]> http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/12/%C2%A1viva-el-pueblo-de-nuestra-senora-la-reina-de-los-angeles-del-rio-de-porciuncula/ Thu, 06 Jan 2011 03:03:00 GMT http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/12/asau-and-savaia-lose-big-in-samoa-challenge-ii/

More than 100 women … 14 villages … 10 weeks … vigorous competition. The results are finally in … and the biggest losers are the villages of Asau (on Savai'i) and Savaia (on Upolu).

A collaboration among the U.S. Peace Corps, the Samoa Red Cross, and Women in Business Development Inc. funded by a grant from the Embassy, the Samoa Challenge II was launched to teach nutrition, encourage exercise, build a supportive environment for making better (and sometimes difficult) choices, and enlist women as agents of healthier living in their villages. [read more] ]]> http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/12/asau-and-savaia-lose-big-in-samoa-challenge-ii/ Thu, 06 Jan 2011 03:03:00 GMT http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/12/giving-thanks/

Over the past week I have received several messages from readers expressing interest in the Thanksgiving events and traditions that I mentioned briefly in a recent blog post. In response, I'd like to share a few more photos and facts about that aspect of American cultural heritage.

The roots of our Thanksgiving holiday trace back to 1621 and the English settlers known as the Pilgrims. The provisions that the settlers brought from England proved wholly insufficient to get them through their first winter in the new world, and they faced starvation. Massasoit, the chief of the Wampanoag tribe of Native Americans, kept them alive by donating substantial amounts of food. Squanto, a Patuxet Native American, taught the settlers to fend for themselves by catching eel and cultivating the "three sisters" of new world agriculture — beans, maize, and squash. [read more] ]]> http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/12/giving-thanks/ Thu, 06 Jan 2011 03:03:00 GMT http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/12/a-day-in-akaroa/

I found myself smiling today about a Mainland outing that I particularly enjoyed last month. I have always been drawn to wildlife, vintage architecture, and the sea, and it is always a treat to stumble across locales that offer all three pleasures. So, at the suggestion of a colleague the day after Secretary Clinton's plane lifted off from Christchurch last month, Dr McWaine and I drove the 75 kilometers out to the Banks Peninsula to spend a day in Akaroa. [read more] ]]> http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/12/a-day-in-akaroa/ Thu, 06 Jan 2011 03:03:00 GMT http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/12/nga-mihi-o-te-wa-me-te-tau-hou/

As my first full calendar year as Ambassador draws to a close, I marvel at the degree to which 2010 has been a year of accelerating momentum, constant motion, and great contrasts. I feel blessed to have been given the extraordinary opportunity both to serve my country as President Obama's personal representative and to immerse myself in societies as vibrant and rich as New Zealand and Samoa.

Geographically, I had the great fortune to travel from lush, tropical Samoa to the desolate, frigid beauty of the South Pole. In between I visited – in some cases many times – Waitangi, Whangerei, Auckland, Hamilton, Rotorua, Taupo, Foxton, Levin, Palmerston North, Greytown, Martinborough, Porirua, almost every nook and cranny in Greater Wellington, Christchurch, Akaroa, Queenstown, Wanaka, Arrowtown, Dunedin, Gore, Edendale, Invercargill, Bluff, Apia, Sapapali'i, Poutasi, and dozens of other Kiwi towns and Samoan villages. I haven't yet 'been everywhere, man', but I've made a running start. [read more] ]]> http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/12/nga-mihi-o-te-wa-me-te-tau-hou/ Wed, 22 Dec 2010 03:03:00 GMT http://usrugbynz.com/

Check out U.S Embassy Wellington's new rugby blog usrugbynz.com - countdown for the USA Eagles towards the Rugby World Cup in New Zealand, 2011. [go to website] ]]> http://usrugbynz.com/ Thu, 16 Dec 2010 03:03:00 GMT http://www.flickr.com/photos/us_embassy_newzealand/sets/72157625607674724/

Ambassador Huebner presents the new version of the American Ambassador's Cup to Wellington Rugby Union's Chairman of the Rugby Board, Pete Scott. Since 1967, Wellington's rugby clubs have fought for the American Ambassador's Cup at the annual club rugby sevens tournament. [photos] ]]> http://www.flickr.com/photos/us_embassy_newzealand/sets/72157625607674724/ Thu, 16 Dec 2010 03:03:00 GMT http://www.flickr.com/photos/us_embassy_newzealand/sets/72157625566742618/

Farah Pandith also spoke in Wellington on 'Muslim Engagement in the 21st Century'. [watch video] [photos] [social media outreach video]

]]> http://www.flickr.com/photos/us_embassy_newzealand/sets/72157625566742618/ Thu, 16 Dec 2010 03:03:00 GMT http://www.flickr.com/photos/us_embassy_newzealand/sets/72157625418320505/

Follow the link to view photos of the United States Marine Corps 235th Birthday Ball, Wellington, New Zealand. [FlickR photo collection] ]]> http://www.flickr.com/photos/us_embassy_newzealand/sets/72157625418320505/ Thu, 16 Dec 2010 03:03:00 GMT http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/huebner_antarctica.html

Follow the link to view photos, videos, and read blog posts about U.S. Ambassador Huebner's visit to Antarctica [photos/videos/blog posts] [FlickR photo collection] ]]> http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/huebner_antarctica.html Thu, 16 Dec 2010 03:03:00 GMT http://www.facebook.com/notes/us-embassy-new-zealand/watch-live-right-here-farah-pandith-muslim-engagement-in-the-21st-century/10150094318638854

Farah Pandith - Special Repersentative to Muslim Communities for the U.S. Department of State - will be speaking live from Wellington on 'Muslim Engagement in the 21st Century'.

The presentation will start at 11am, Friday December 10, 2010.

More about Farah Pandith: Farah Pandith was appointed Special Representative to Muslim Communities in June 2009. Her office is responsible for executing Secretary Clinton's vision for engagement with Muslims around the world on a people-to-people and organizational level. She reports directly to the Secretary of State. [find out more] ]]> http://www.facebook.com/notes/us-embassy-new-zealand/watch-live-right-here-farah-pandith-muslim-engagement-in-the-21st-century/10150094318638854 Mon, 06 Dec 2010 03:03:00 GMT http://www.america.gov/st/business-english/2010/December/20101203135014elrem7.930934e-03.html

Washington — U.S. Commerce Secretary Gary Locke says nations that have been overly reliant on exports to be the engines of their economic growth will benefit by pursuing policies that help boost their own consumer demand.

Locke on December 2 said the United States is doing its part to correct global imbalances by boosting domestic savings and reducing its deficit. Other nations can boost domestic activity through regulatory reforms, infrastructure investments and expanding the social safety net for its citizens, he added. [read more] ]]> http://www.america.gov/st/business-english/2010/December/20101203135014elrem7.930934e-03.html Mon, 06 Dec 2010 03:03:00 GMT http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/12/outrunning-the-storm/

When I padded into the bunkhouse common room this morning to get my customary Diet Coke wake-me-up, Dr Lisa was waiting to advise that we needed to pack our belongings within the next 30 minutes and hightail it to the ice runway, unless we wanted to be stranded at McMurdo until Tuesday. There was a big storm approaching, and planes would not be able to land or take off once it hit.

The C-17 that we were planning to fly home to New Zealand in the late afternoon was being held in Christchurch because by the time it would arrive at McMurdo, weather conditions would prevent it from landing. There was, though, one of the smaller LC-130s already available on the ground at McMurdo on which we could catch a lift north. [read more] [photos] [videos/photos/blog posts] ]]> http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/12/outrunning-the-storm/ Mon, 06 Dec 2010 03:03:00 GMT http://www.america.gov/st/democracyhr-english/2010/December/20101203154351ffej0.2262079.html?CP.rss=true

New York — At a conference table at a major U.S. television network, a top executive in charge of newsgathering was being peppered with questions: about the need to cover international events, about using fewer staff members to cover more stories, about the latest in technology, social media and the marketplace for news.

David Reiter's questioners were fellow journalists, most of them rising stars in their own countries' print, broadcast and online news media. Their visit to ABC News also included discussions with members of the network's investigative reporting unit, its main nightly news program and its late-night newsmagazine. [read more] ]]> http://www.america.gov/st/democracyhr-english/2010/December/20101203154351ffej0.2262079.html?CP.rss=true Mon, 06 Dec 2010 03:03:00 GMT http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/12/tales-of-two-bases/

Dinner last night was a great pleasure. Ola, a few friends of ours from McMurdo, and I drove 3 kilometers (about 2 miles) through the howling wind up and around the hill to get to Scott Base on the other side of the point.

Scott Base has been New Zealand's permanent base in Antarctica since 1958. Like McMurdo Station, Scott Base sits on Ross Island in the Ross Sea. The Antarctic mainland is 70 kilometers (42 miles) from the Base, across the ice of McMurdo Sound. Named after Antarctic explorer Captain Robert Falcon Scott, the Base accommodates up to 85 researchers and staff at any one time during the summer, with a skeleton staff of about a dozen remaining for the winter. [read more] [photos] [videos/photos/blog posts] ]]> http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/12/tales-of-two-bases/ Mon, 29 Nov 2010 03:03:00 GMT http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/12/above-and-below-the-ice/

The United States' McMurdo Station and New Zealand's Scott Base sit close together on McMurdo Sound, an inlet of the Ross Sea. Incredibly rich in nutrients and biodiversity, the Ross Sea is one of the last bodies of water on earth not harmed by human activity (other than the seemingly inevitable commercial over-fishing of certain species). Back from the South Pole, we decided to take a nice long walk along what will be the shore line of this special body of water when the ice of McMurdo Sound breaks apart for the summer over the course of the next few weeks.

Last night I heard that someone had fallen through the ice while walking back from the 'ob tube,' so of course that's where I wanted to go first. Good-natured as always, Dr. Lisa (Clough) agreed to squire us there. Smart and prepared as always, she asked her colleague, Michelle, and McMurdo fireman Andrι to accompany us, in case she needed help fishing me out of the water. [read more] [photos] [videos/photos/blog posts] ]]> http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/12/above-and-below-the-ice/ Mon, 29 Nov 2010 03:03:00 GMT http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/11/at-the-south-pole/

It just keeps getting better down here. Early this morning we suited up in our extreme-cold survival gear, followed our friend Dr. Lisa Clough of the National Science Foundation down to the ice airstrip, boarded an LC-130 Hercules, and flew 3 hours inland to the South Pole. For decades the Hercules fleet has been the dependable backbone of the U.S. Antarctic Program, and I thoroughly enjoyed sitting on the flight deck of the old workhorse with the pilot and co-pilot as we soared into the Antarctic interior.

We used the ski landing gear to touch down at the amazing new Amundsen-Scott South Pole Station, the southernmost scientific research base on Earth, where we were met by Martin Lewis (Acting South Pole Area Director) and Paul Sullivan (Science Support Manager). Dedicated, highly experienced, and funny long-time veterans of the Pole, Martin and Paul would prove to be superbly informative and enthusiastic guides for the day. [read more] [photos] [videos/photos/blog posts] ]]> http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/11/at-the-south-pole/ Mon, 29 Nov 2010 03:03:00 GMT http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/11/big-high-down-south/

I just had one of the biggest rushes of my life. I spent the last hour of the five-hour flight from Christchurch sitting on the flight deck with the pilot and co-pilot of the C-17 Globemaster III carrying my colleague Ola and me to Antarctica for a week.

Dr McWaine will tell you that I am not by nature an effusive person. I don't jump up and down with any regularity. I tend to take things – even great things – in stride in a way that I fear sometimes disappoints those around me. I was raised to be cautious, controlled, matter-of-fact, and skeptical. When I was quite young, I recall an elder relative stating authoritatively that blocking every silver lining is a thick dark cloud. That impressed me. [read more] [photos] [videos/photos/blog posts] ]]> http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/11/big-high-down-south/ Mon, 29 Nov 2010 03:03:00 GMT http://www.state.gov/secretary/rm/2010/11/152078.htm
The United States strongly condemns the illegal disclosure of classified information. It puts people's lives in danger, threatens our national security, and undermines our efforts to work with other countries to solve shared problems. This Administration is advancing a robust foreign policy that is focused on advancing America's national interests and leading the world in solving the most complex challenges of our time, from fixing the global economy, to thwarting international terrorism, to stopping the spread of catastrophic weapons, to advancing human rights and universal values. In every country and in every region of the world, we are working with partners to pursue these aims. [Read more/video] ]]> http://www.state.gov/secretary/rm/2010/11/152078.htm Mon, 29 Nov 2010 01:03:00 GMT http://www.facebook.com/notes/us-embassy-new-zealand/watch-live-from-antarctica-video-presentation-with-the-us-ambassador-huebner-and/10150089799573854

Watch the live video presentation with the U.S. Ambassador to New Zealand and Samoa, David Huebner, with two scientisits from the U.S. Antarctic Program.

The Presentation will start on Friday 03 December, 2010 from 10-11am.

The Scientists who will be participating in this video conference are:

• Mr. Gifford Wong, graduate student on one of the very big glaciology projects that is drilling an ice core from the West Antarctic Ice Sheet.
• Dr. Pauline Yu, who works on the biological impacts of ocean acidification.

[find out more] ]]> http://www.facebook.com/notes/us-embassy-new-zealand/watch-live-from-antarctica-video-presentation-with-the-us-ambassador-huebner-and/10150089799573854 Sun, 28 Nov 2010 03:03:00 GMT http://cc2010.mx/en/

COP16/CMP6 is the 16th edition of Conference of the Parties of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP) and the 6th Conference of the Parties serving as the meeting of the Parties to the Kyoto Protocol (CMP). 'Parties' refers to all the national states that signed and ratified both of the international treaties, committing to observe and comply with its terms regarding international cooperation against climate change. [visit the website] ]]> http://cc2010.mx/en/ Sun, 28 Nov 2010 03:03:00 GMT http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/mine_explosion_nz.html

On behalf of the people of the United States, I offer heartfelt condolences to the families of the miners who died in the Pike River Mine explosion, and all those affected by this tragedy. New Zealand has lost 29 brave and hard-working men who will be mourned around the world. Earlier this month I visited New Zealand and I saw the famous Kiwi strength and spirit for myself. You have come through adversity before, and I know you will do so again. Today, our thoughts and prayers are with you. [view article]

Related - From U.S. Ambassador Huebner's Blog: In Remembrance and Solidarity. ]]> http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/mine_explosion_nz.html Sun, 28 Nov 2010 03:03:00 GMT http://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2010/11/23/presidential-proclamation-thanksgiving-day A beloved American tradition, Thanksgiving Day offers us the opportunity to focus our thoughts on the grace that has been extended to our people and our country. This spirit brought together the newly arrived Pilgrims and the Wampanoag tribe -- who had been living and thriving around Plymouth, Massachusetts for thousands of years -- in an autumn harvest feast centuries ago. This Thanksgiving Day, we reflect on the compassion and contributions of Native Americans, whose skill in agriculture helped the early colonists survive, and whose rich culture continues to add to our Nation's heritage. We also pause our normal pursuits on this day and join in a spirit of fellowship and gratitude for the year's bounties and blessings.

Thanksgiving Day is a time each year, dating back to our founding, when we lay aside the troubles and disagreements of the day and bow our heads in humble recognition of the providence bestowed upon our Nation. Amidst the uncertainty of a fledgling experiment in democracy, President George Washington declared the first Thanksgiving in America, recounting the blessings of tranquility, union, and plenty that shined upon our young country. In the dark days of the Civil War when the fate of our Union was in doubt, President Abraham Lincoln proclaimed a Thanksgiving Day, calling for 'the Almighty hand' to heal and restore our Nation. [read more] ]]> http://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2010/11/23/presidential-proclamation-thanksgiving-day Tue, 23 Nov 2010 03:03:00 GMT http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/11/science-day/

As you may already have picked up, I am a science aficionado. When given a choice, I tend to gravitate toward telescopes, formulae, experiments, science fiction, fossils, and volcanoes rather than some of the other recreational choices available to humans. I have never outgrown my childhood love of outer space, dinosaurs, and atoms. I think Albert Einstein was, and is, cool. I think kids who like science and technology are cool .. in fact, far cooler than some of the types who usually rule the roost during adolescence. [read more] ]]> http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/11/science-day/ Tue, 23 Nov 2010 03:03:00 GMT http://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=499653388853 Washington — Through its webcasts, CO.NX is providing you access to dozens of live, 90-minute programs taking place at the United Nations Climate Change Conference, COP-16. Programs — hosted at the U.S. Center at COP-16 in Cancun, Mexico — run from November 29 through December 10 and include the following (all program times are listed in CST (GMT -6))... [read more] ]]> http://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=499653388853 Tue, 23 Nov 2010 03:03:00 GMT http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/mine_explosion.html

Our prayers are with the missing miners and their families after the November 19th explosion at the Pike River mine in New Zealand. Our Embassy in Wellington and Consulate General in Auckland are monitoring the situation closely and stand ready to provide technical assistance if necessary. I witnessed the courage and resilience of New Zealanders firsthand earlier this month, and it is my hope that all 29 men still inside are safe and will be rescued. My thoughts go out to those affected by this disaster and all the people of New Zealand. [view article] ]]> http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/mine_explosion.html Sun, 21 Nov 2010 03:03:00 GMT https://travelregistration.state.gov/ibrs The State Department (DOS) recently launched the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). It allows U.S. citizens to record foreign trip and residence information that DOS can use to communicate with and assist citizens in an emergency.

U.S. citizens who travel or reside abroad can also access this site. We invite you to enrol yourself and your family and become acquainted with STEP. If you are already registered with this Embassy/Consulate, please enrol using STEP to update your records. STEP for U.S. citizens allows you to enrol and update your own records, making it easier for you to keep your information current. This also includes your travel itineraries. The data you provided is completely secure, and is held behind DOS firewalls, accessed only by cleared personnel in Embassies, Consulates, and DOS, and releasable only under provisions of the Privacy Act. [find out more about STEP] ]]> https://travelregistration.state.gov/ibrs Tue, 16 Nov 2010 03:03:00 GMT http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/apec_2010.html Yokohama, Japan, November 14, 2010 - At the conclusion of their two-day meeting, APEC Economic Leaders adopted a declaration and a new growth strategy on the way forward for further building and integrating the Asia-Pacific region. [more information from the APEC Summit] ]]> http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/apec_2010.html Tue, 16 Nov 2010 03:03:00 GMT http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/11/fun-fitness-and-fellowship-at-the-special-olympics/

I go to a lot of events. Some are purely work. Some are a mix of work and socializing. Some are fun. Some aren't. Every now and then one of them can feel like a root canal without anesthesia. But every now and then one of them can, instead, be like swimming with dolphins or walking on clouds. I had one of that latter type this past Sunday.

Dr McWaine and I spent a few hours in Newtown Park on a sunny and warm Wellington day at a Special Olympics Regional Athletics event for clubs from Wellington, Hutt Valley, Kapiti, and Manawatu. More than 50 athletes competed in races, long jumps, and shot putting. A few dozen family members and other supporters – including Dr McWaine, net ball star Irene van Dyk, and me – cheered the participants on from the sidelines. [read more] ]]> http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/11/fun-fitness-and-fellowship-at-the-special-olympics/ Tue, 16 Nov 2010 03:03:00 GMT http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/clinton_nz2010.html

Follow the link to find photos, videos, blog posts, remarks and speeches of Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton's, visit to New Zealand in November, 2010. [latest news] ]]> http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/clinton_nz2010.html Sun, 07 Nov 2010 01:03:00 GMT http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/clinton_nz2010.html Follow the link to find the latest information on the Secretary of State's visit to New Zealand in November, 2010. [latest news] ]]> http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/clinton_nz2010.html Thu, 28 Oct 2010 01:03:00 GMT http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/10/secretary-clinton-coming-to-visit/

We at the Embassy are delighted that Secretary Hillary Clinton will be coming to New Zealand in less than two weeks. We were all disappointed — no one more so than the Secretary herself – that her original January trip had to be postponed because of the Haiti earthquake, but we knew that she would reschedule before year end. [read more] ]]> http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/10/secretary-clinton-coming-to-visit/ Mon, 25 Oct 2010 01:03:00 GMT http://blogs.state.gov/index.php/site/entry/qotw_pacific_engagement

Next week, Secretary Clinton travels to Hawaii, Vietnam, Cambodia, Malaysia, Papua New Guinea, New Zealand, and Australia. On October 28, she will deliver a major policy speech on the United States' role as a Pacific nation.

As the United States enhances its engagement in the Pacific, what regional issues should top the agenda, and why? [read more] ]]> http://blogs.state.gov/index.php/site/entry/qotw_pacific_engagement Mon, 25 Oct 2010 01:03:00 GMT http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/nominations_educators.html
Applications must be received online to Susinz2010@gmail.com by Noon, Thursday, 18th November, 2010. [Find out More] ]]> http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/nominations_educators.html Thu, 21 Oct 2010 01:03:00 GMT http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/scholar_nominations.html
Applications must be received online to Susinz2010@gmail.com by Noon, Thursday, 18th November, 2010. [Find out More] ]]> http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/scholar_nominations.html Thu, 21 Oct 2010 01:03:00 GMT http://www.flickr.com/photos/us_embassy_newzealand/5103461830/

Deputy Chief of Mission, Bob Clarke and Agriculture Attachι Laura Scandurra meet with Hon. Nathan Guy (Minister of Internal Affairs) at his office on Thursday 21 October. Between 9 – 27 August the minister participated on a U.S. State Department funded International Visitor Leadership program entitled "U.S. Agricultural Trade and Food Safety". The minister (who is also a farmer) was able to study U.S. policies related to agricultural trade and food security in several different regions of the United States. [view photo] ]]> http://www.flickr.com/photos/us_embassy_newzealand/5103461830/ Thu, 21 Oct 2010 01:03:00 GMT http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/electronic_voting_2010.html

The following 25 states, or parts of these states, are participating in an Electronic Voting System project:

Alabama, Arizona, Colorado, Delaware, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, Nevada, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Texas, Utah, Washington, and West Virginia

If you vote in one of these states/counties, you should follow the instructions in the attached Electronic Voting System Fact Sheet to find your respective state, and use all of the voting options available to you through www.FVAP.gov. Many of these state tools allow you to use a full ballot reflecting all contests (federal, state, and local). Follow the instructions for returning the voted ballot. [Find out more] ]]> http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/electronic_voting_2010.html Thu, 21 Oct 2010 01:03:00 GMT http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/dv_lottery.html [Read More] ]]> http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/dv_lottery.html Thu, 21 Oct 2010 01:03:00 GMT http://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=480224203853

The U. S. Department of State sponsors the "Doors to Diplomacy" educational challenge - to encourage middle school and high school students around the world to produce web projects that teach others about the importance of international affairs and diplomacy. Each student team member of the winning "Doors to Diplomacy" Award team receives a $2,000 scholarship, and the winning coaches' schools each receive a $500 cash award.

With that in mind, what else should we cover? Who should we have come to speak? What problems should this event address? [Find out more] ]]> http://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=480224203853 Thu, 21 Oct 2010 01:03:00 GMT http://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=479651028853

Department of State: We're already working on the next iteration of TechATState: a 2-day event examining Civil Society 2.0.

The event will be November 4-5, 2010 in Washington, DC. We'll supply more details as we get closer, but generally we'll be exploring applications of technology to help civil society organizations do their great work better. Topics may include Democracy, Transparency, Civic Engagement, Economic Opportunity, Environmental Protection, Climate Change, Disaster Response and much more. Speakers will include technology luminaries, NGO/CSO bright lights, State officials and those of other government organizations, and representatives of multilaterals. The first day will be high-level presentations followed by panels; the second day will be an 'un-conference' where attendees run the agenda and we all get into the details and turn wish-lists into concrete tools for grassroots effectiveness.

With that in mind, what else should we cover? Who should we have come to speak? What problems should this event address? [Find out more] ]]> http://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=479651028853 Thu, 21 Oct 2010 01:03:00 GMT http://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=479497403853 Destination California and the AACC International give you the chance to win more than $9,000 in scholarships. All you have to do is tell us how to market to students in your country. In other words, how can U.S. colleges make you and your friends interested in studying abroad in America? Tell us and you could win! Deadline extented to November 1, 2010. [Find out more] ]]> http://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=479497403853 Thu, 21 Oct 2010 01:03:00 GMT http://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=478925998853 Since 1980, millions of refugees have been resettled in the United States. Individual Americans welcome and help integrate refugees into U.S. communities large and small and, in turn, the resettled refugees enrich American culture. This edition of eJournal USA presents some background information and includes several personal stories. [Read the EJournal] ]]> http://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=478925998853 Thu, 21 Oct 2010 01:03:00 GMT http://www.flickr.com/photos/us_embassy_newzealand/5081570003/in/set-72157625039946609/ Edward Gresser spoke at U.S. Embassy Wellington on October 14, 2010, on the 2010 Elections: A Foreign Policy Non-Debate?

Joining the DLC after eight years at the Progressive Policy Institute, Edward Gresser was appointed President on March 30, 2010, and directs the DLC's events and policy development. He also serves as Senior Fellow and Director of Trade and Global Markets. One of the country's best-respected trade and global-economy experts, his major research focus includes economic relations between the west and the Muslim world; East Asian integration and American trade relations with China; and the U.S. tariff system and its effects on low-income American shoppers and development prospects in poor countries. Mr. Gresser also created the widely praised "Trade Fact of the Week." His research has been cited by leaders of the WTO, the World Bank, the IMF and other institutions, and covered by major publications and news outlets including The Washington Post, The New York Times, The Los Angeles Times, The Financial Times, The Far Eastern Economic Review. His first book, Freedom From Want: American Liberalism and the Global Economy, was published in November 2007. [Listen to presentation] [Photos] ]]> http://www.flickr.com/photos/us_embassy_newzealand/5081570003/in/set-72157625039946609/ Wed, 15 Oct 2010 01:03:00 GMT http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/dv_lottery.html http://www.dvlottery.state.gov. [Read More] ]]> http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/dv_lottery.html Tue, 05 Oct 2010 01:03:00 GMT http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/10/young-leaders-connected-2/

I am pleased to report that our Connecting Young Leaders conference seems to have gone very well. Robust discussions were had. New friendships were formed. Different perspectives were aired. Common ground was established. And folks had fun. There isn't much more one could hope for.

As I mentioned in my last post, we kicked things off with a reception for our 50 student attendees Friday evening at Parliament, graciously hosted by Deputy Speaker Lindsay Tisch and his lovely wife Leonie. The Deputy Speaker said a few words about the history and function of Parliament, and then led the students on tours of the historic chambers. We ran well past our planned adjournment time, and the Deputy Speaker and the students were still enjoying drinks and nibbles when Dr. McWaine and I decamped at 9:00 pm. [Read More] [Photos] ]]> http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/10/young-leaders-connected-2/ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 01:03:00 GMT http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/acta_2010.html Washington, D.C. – Today the Office of the United States Trade Representative released a statement by the Anti-Counterfeiting Trade Agreement (ACTA) negotiating partners regarding the recent round of ACTA negotiations in Tokyo, Japan:

The 11th and final round of the negotiations for the Anti-Counterfeiting Trade Agreement (ACTA) was concluded successfully in Tokyo, Japan on October 2. The Government of Japan hosted the negotiations.

Participants in the negotiations included Australia, Canada, the European Union (EU) represented by the European Commission and the EU Presidency (Belgium) and the EU Member States, Japan, Korea, Mexico, Morocco, New Zealand, Singapore, Switzerland and the United States of America.. [Read More] [Fact Sheet] [Related] ]]> http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/acta_2010.html Tue, 05 Oct 2010 01:03:00 GMT http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/10/future-leaders-march-to-parliament/

Just a quick note as I head out the door on a Friday evening. Dr McWaine and I are headed over to Parliament to greet a group of 50 students from around New Zealand who have come to Wellington to attend a conference that the Embassy has organized for this weekend.

It all started one evening during my inaugural fortnight in New Zealand last December when I took a dozen Victoria (Wellington) University undergrads to The Thistle to brief me about local, national, and regional issues. It was a very productive learning experience for me, as well as a fun evening. [Read More] [Photos] ]]> http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/10/future-leaders-march-to-parliament/ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 01:03:00 GMT http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/us_pacific_policy.html Washington — The U.N. Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) has the full support of the United States in its work assisting the Afghan people as they build a democratic society, provide for their own security and create a responsive government, says U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Susan Rice.

The United States' goal in Afghanistan, Rice said, remains unchanged: to disrupt, dismantle and defeat the terrorist group al-Qaida and prevent its return as well as the return of the former Taliban regime. The United States welcomes UNAMA's commitment to align assistance behind the Afghan government's priorities, Rice said in Security Council debate on Afghanistan and the UNAMA mission September 29. [Read More] ]]> http://www.america.gov/st/peacesec-english/2010/September/20100930164442dmslahrellek0.4855158.html Fri, 01 Oct 2010 01:03:00 GMT http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/us_pacific_policy.html Kurt M. Campbell.
Assistant Secretary, Bureau of East Asian and Pacific Affairs.
Testimony Before the House Committee on Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Asia, the Pacific, and the Global Environment. Washington, DC.


Chairman Faleomavaega, Representative Manzullo, and distinguished Members of the Committee, it is a privilege to testify before you today on U.S. policy toward the nations of the Pacific. I welcome the opportunity to discuss our approach to this important region.

As you know, the United States has significant moral, historic, and strategic links with the island-nations of the Pacific. Almost 70 years ago, during the dark days of the Pacific campaign, the United States and the people of the Pacific fought side-by-side to counter the Japanese imperial march toward Australia. Our identity as a 'Pacific power' was, in many ways, forged on the beaches of the Pacific during World War Two. We often forget about the significant battles, such as Guadalcanal, that in many ways proved to be the most consequential, if not fundamental, to the remarkable growth and stability that the Asia-Pacific enjoys today. Looking back, and using this opportunity to reflect forward, it is remarkable to see the progress that the Pacific Island nations have made over the last half century. [Read More] ]]> http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/us_pacific_policy.html Fri, 01 Oct 2010 01:03:00 GMT http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/09/ron-mueck-at-the-christchurch-art-gallery/

Last Saturday, as I always do when I am in Christchurch, I stopped by to see my good friend Jenny Harper, director of the Christchurch Art Gallery. I fell in love with the Gallery when I first visited the City early this year, and there has been a new delight each of the four times I've returned. This time the treat was an impromptu preview of the impending exhibition of Ron Mueck's work, on tour from the National Gallery of Victoria. [Read More] ]]> http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/09/ron-mueck-at-the-christchurch-art-gallery/ Fri, 01 Oct 2010 01:03:00 GMT http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/consular_visits2.html
A United States Consular Officer will be available in Christchurch on Wednesday October 20th, from 10am to 4pm and Thursday October 21st from 9am to 4pm, to accept Passport and Consular Report of Birth Abroad applications from American Citizens who would normally need to apply in person at the Consulate General in Auckland: that is, Minors, and first-time Adult passport applications, and applications to replace a Lost/Stolen passport.

If you wish to make an appointment please telephone the Consulate General in Auckland on: 09 303-2724 ext: 2800, 2842, 2848, 2856, or email us at aucklandacs@state.gov. [More] ]]> http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/consular_visits2.html Thu, 23 Sep 2010 01:03:00 GMT http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/09/you-voted-and-the-winners-are/

World of Wearable Arts in New Zealand. Some of the 2010 Winning entries and the stories behind them.

The Public Affairs Section at the United States Embassy in Wellington, New Zealand, hosted 8 American and 2 British finalists who were visiting Wellington for the World of Wearable Art Awards. Locally known as 'WOW' this event is an annual fashion design completion and show that attracts entrants for all over the world. The event runs over 8 nights and is seen by 15,000 people. Last year's Supreme Winner was American designer David Walker from Alaska. Three artists provided a presentation of their designs and talked about their work processes and inspirations to an audience of students and lecturers from three design colleges. The students and artists were able to network and share their work and the visitors presentation provided inspiration to the students.

David Walker: 2010 Commercial Gen-i Creative Excellence Section: Theme 'Art of Light'.

David Walker: David is from Alaska and is a highly skilled carpenter / builder who has been interested in pursuing the characteristics and capabilities of what can be designed in wood. He has been a regular finalist in the WOW Awards and won the Supreme Award last year.

Sean Purucker - 2010 Winner WETA Award.

Sean Purucker lives in California and studied Industrial Design Technology at The Art Institute of Seattle. In 2008 Sean was the winner of the World of Wearable Art WOW! Factor Award.

Richelle Rudeen - 2010 Winner Tourism New Zealand Avant Garde Section: Theme: Inspired by the Circus.

[View Video] ]]> http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5d-UePRNYpo Mon, 27 Sep 2010 01:03:00 GMT http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/09/you-voted-and-the-winners-are/

On August 19th I talked a bit about the Democracy Photo Challengea>.

The Challenge was in essence a two-part invitation … first for photographers to capture in an image what the complex concept of democracy means to them, and then for viewers to vote for the images that they found most compelling.

The competition was tough. About 3,000 photographs were submitted from 131 different countries. The field was narrowed to 36 finalists by an expert panel of judges.

Since my initial post more than 500,000 people of all ages and backgrounds from around the world have voted for their favorites among the finalists, and the winners have now been announced. Like the initial pool, the winning photographs present a dynamic, diverse set of interesting and powerful perspectives about what democracy means today.

As I promised, here are the winners: [View Winning Entries] ]]> http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/09/you-voted-and-the-winners-are/ Thu, 23 Sep 2010 01:03:00 GMT http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mxJ9kzL4Idg

William Chafe spoke at U.S. Embassy Wellington on September 23, 2010, on the expectations associated with the Obama presidency and the challenges he faces in trying to realize those expectations. He spoke of the dramatic changes in human rights in America that have occurred in the past 50 years, but also the degree to which we (and the President) have generated expectations that are hard to achieve... [read more/watch video] [view photos] [listen to presentation] ]]> http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mxJ9kzL4Idg Wed, 22 Sep 2010 01:03:00 GMT http://itunes.apple.com/podcast/u-s-embassy-wellington-new/id393785381
Stay iTuned for Podcasts presented by the Embassy of the United States of America, Wellington, New Zealand covering U.S. - New Zealand Relations, trade, climate change, environment, International Property Rights, security issues, and audio/videos from the U.S. Ambassador to New Zealand and Samoa - David Huebner.

[Go to iTunes]



Don't forget about our other social channels, where you can stay up-to-date on the latest Embassy news, information and event: ]]> http://itunes.apple.com/podcast/u-s-embassy-wellington-new/id393785381 Thu, 23 Sep 2010 01:03:00 GMT http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/clinton_nz_visit.html JANUARY VISIT TO BE RESCHEDULED.

Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton announced on Saturday (NZ time) that she will travel to the region in November.

The Secretary expects to visit New Zealand during this trip.

An announcement with dates and exact itinerary will be made closer to the trip. [Press Release] ]]> http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/clinton_nz_visit.html Wed, 22 Sep 2010 01:03:00 GMT http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/09/more-good-people-doing-great-things-in-samoa/

As I have said before, I am a vigorous partisan of NGOs because of their critical contribution to the development, sustainability, and health of civil society. Time and again I also find that NGOs are dynamic incubators of new ideas and new approaches. They are nimble, adaptive, and creative in ways that government agencies often cannot be. [Read More] ]]> http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/09/more-good-people-doing-great-things-in-samoa/ Wed, 22 Sep 2010 01:03:00 GMT http://samoa.usembassy.gov/townhall_2010.html
Due to the visit of an American Citizen Services expert from the U.S. Consulate General in Auckland, A Town Hall meeting will be conducted for all Americans at the Pulenu'u House, opposite the Town Clock in Apia on Monday October 4th 2010 at 3:00pm.

The focus of the Town Hall meeting will be aimed at revitalizing our American-citizen/national warden network, which provides information of interest to all expat Americans. We will also be prepared to discuss the range of American citizen/national concerns overseas and any other matters of general interest—voting, taxes, social security, notarials....

Please let the U.S. Embassy at ApiaConsular@state.gov or phone 22696/21452/21436/21631 know if you plan to attend—it will help us plan for materials to distribute; It will also ensure enough chairs are available!

Please spread the word to all your American friends. All are welcome. [Read More] ]]> http://samoa.usembassy.gov/townhall_2010.html Thu, 16 Sep 2010 01:03:00 GMT http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/911_christchurch_service.html

The theme of this year's Teuila Festival was Beautiful Samoa Lalelei, and the events that I attended during the second half of my visit aptly reinforced that message.

On Thursday night Dr. McWaine, my deputy chief of mission Robin Yeager, and I attended a fashion show at the new Orator Hotel as guests of Deputy Prime Minister Misa Telefoni Retzlaff. The show featured the new Teuila collection by Mena, a Polynesian-influenced label launched in Samoa in 2002 by the four Loheni sisters (Agnes, Jackie, Gina, and Charlene). The label is named after the sisters' seamstress mother, who taught them how to design and sew clothing when they were young. The show featured a wide array of stylish clothes for men and women, and it was a pleasure to see mother Mena acknowledged at the end of the program. [Read More] ]]> http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/09/more-from-the-teuila-festival/ Thu, 16 Sep 2010 01:03:00 GMT http://www.flickr.com/photos/us_embassy_newzealand/4990681393/in/set-72157624957460846/

Philip J. Crowley -Assistant Secretary
Daily Press Briefing:

...I want to take a moment to thank the Government of New Zealand, and in particular the Royal New Zealand Air Force, for dispatching a P3 Orion aircraft from Christchurch to rescue an American citizen who was seriously ill and in need of evacuation from the U.S. McMurdo Station in Antarctica yesterday.

The first flight – this was not an easy mission. The first flight turned back because of a blizzard. But the weather cleared enough yesterday to allow a second attempt, which succeeded. And it's particularly noteworthy since New Zealand itself is recovering from a 7.0 magnitude earthquake that struck on September 4 and caused unprecedented damage to Christchurch from which this flight originated. But we are grateful to New Zealand for their quick response, and it's certainly characteristic of the longstanding cooperation that we have between our two countries. [Read More] ]]> http://www.flickr.com/photos/us_embassy_newzealand/4990681393/in/set-72157624957460846/ Thu, 16 Sep 2010 01:03:00 GMT http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Msc4gSCkgQ4 Joseph Cirincione joined Ploughshares Fund as president in March 2008. He is author of Bomb Scare: The History and Future of Nuclear Weapons and served previously as senior vice president for national security and international policy at the Center for American Progress and as director for nonproliferation at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace for eight years. He worked for nine years in the U.S. House of Representatives as a professional staff member of the Committee on Armed Services and the Committee on Government Operations, and served as staff director of the bipartisan Military Reform Caucus. He teaches at the Georgetown University Graduate School of Foreign Service and is a member of the Council on Foreign Relations. [Read More/Video] [Listen to Presentation at US Embassy, Wellington] ]]> http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Msc4gSCkgQ4 Thu, 16 Sep 2010 01:03:00 GMT http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/911_christchurch_service.html

Paul Fiffick - Acting Public Affairs Officer.

Let me begin by conveying best greetings from Ambassador David Huebner. He really wanted to be here today but, unfortunately, is out of the country. Thank you all for being here.

In Maoridom, I understand that there is a saying: He tangata, he tangata, he tangata. It is the people, the people, the people.

Never is that more true than when the unexpected hits. Never is that more true than in times of crisis; in times of uncertainty.

A week ago, when the unexpected came to Canterbury, what mattered-- first and foremost--was the people. [Read More] ]]> http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/911_christchurch_service.html Thu, 16 Sep 2010 01:03:00 GMT http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/09/talofa-lava-from-the-teuila-festival/

I was fortunate to be able to time my quarterly visit to Samoa to coincide with the Teuila Festival, one of the country's most impressive annual events. All this past week there have been displays, entertainment, feasting, and sporting events in celebration of Samoa's rich culture and great beauty. As always, I particularly enjoyed the fire-knife dancing and the fautasi (traditional long boat) races. [Read More] ]]> http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/09/talofa-lava-from-the-teuila-festival/ Mon, 13 Sep 2010 01:03:00 GMT http://blogs.state.gov/index.php/site/entry/cwa_mdgs On Thursday, September 16, 2010 (EDT), David Lane, President and CEO of ONE, will hold a conversation with USAID Administrator Rajiv Shah, on global development opportunities and challenges on the eve of the Millennium Development Goals summit. The discussion will be moderated by Cheryl Benton, Deputy Assistant Secretary of State, Bureau of Public Affairs. The event will be streamed live on DipNote, the Department of State's official blog, at 10:15 a.m. (EDT). You will have the opportunity to participate through the submission of questions, some of which will be selected for response during the live broadcast. Submit your questions now, here on DipNote. [Read More] ]]> http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/09/talofa-lava-from-the-teuila-festival/ Mon, 13 Sep 2010 01:03:00 GMT http://www.state.gov/r/pa/prs/ps/2010/09/147084.htm
This includes approximately $211 million to support immediate relief efforts in Pakistan, through many local and international organizations, the Pakistan National Disaster Management Authority, and the UN's emergency response plan. An additional $50 million has also been allocated for initial recovery efforts to assist with rebuilding communities impacted by the floods. The U.S. also has provided civilian and military in-kind assistance in the form of halal meals, pre-fabricated steel bridges and other infrastructure support, as well as air support to and within Pakistan to transport goods and rescue people at an approximate value of $40 million.* To date, these aircraft have evacuated more than 13,000 people and delivered 5.4 million pounds of relief supplies. We are also expanding pre-existing programs in flood-affected areas.

American business and private citizens are also making generous contributions to assist the people of Pakistan. [Read More] ]]> http://www.state.gov/r/pa/prs/ps/2010/09/147084.htm Mon, 13 Sep 2010 01:03:00 GMT http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/usnz_relations.html Assistant Secretary, Bureau of East Asian and Pacific Affairs
Center for Strategic and International Studies
Washington, DC


ASSISTANT SECRETARY CAMPBELL: I often notice that when people introduce folks, they say things that are nice – and I'm very grateful for Ernie -- but when I get introduced, people always say things like "he has a very special style." And you notice in Asia that often can go kind of both ways if you know what I'm saying. So it's great to be here. I also want to just thank the ambassador and John. I just – there isn’t one word either of them said that I wouldn't support 100 percent, and it's great to be on this panel with them. [Read More] ]]> http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/usnz_relations.html Mon, 13 Sep 2010 01:03:00 GMT http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/08/cooking-up-a-feast-at-ronald-mcdonald-house/

One night this week 15 folks from our Embassy cooked a big dinner for about 30 residents of the Ronald McDonald House here in Wellington. One long-term resident of the House told us that it was the best meal she had had during her seven-week stay. The Embassy crew cooked so much that there were leftovers for breakfast and lunch at the House the next day.

[Read More] ]]> http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/08/cooking-up-a-feast-at-ronald-mcdonald-house/ Mon, 30 Aug 2010 01:03:00 GMT http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/08/introducing-farah-pandith/

One of the best things about my current job is that I meet interesting and exciting new people on a regular basis. One such new friend is Farah Pandith. I met Farah in one of those hop-skip-jump ways only possible in today's world. About a month ago, I received a tweet about a couple of cyber-diplomats named Alec and Jared who are plowing new ground in the State Department. I Googled them and pulled off the net a New York Times Magazine piece that discussed their work. Intrigued, I emailed them. A Facebook-like maneuver ensued in which we compared notes about people we know who might be of interest to each other. The guys introduced me to Farah, and she and I are now working on dates when she can come to New Zealand.

[Read More] ]]> http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/08/introducing-farah-pandith/ Fri, 27 Aug 2010 01:03:00 GMT http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/08/first-encounter-of-the-kiwi-apteryx-kind-in-palmerston-north-of-course/

I was charmed a week ago to meet my first kiwi bird, Chelsea. I drove up to Palmerston North for meetings, and my friends at Massey University kindly introduced me to Chelsea during a tour of the university’s impressive veterinary facilities.

[Read More] ]]> http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/08/first-encounter-of-the-kiwi-apteryx-kind-in-palmerston-north-of-course/ Thu, 26 Aug 2010 01:03:00 GMT http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/08/exercise-your-right-to-vote-right-now-really/

Democracy is muscle. If you don't exercise it, it gets flabby and weak. You start taking it for granted. Until it atrophies. And then you’re sorry. And lame. And vulnerable to others with non-atrophied muscle who might not have the best of intentions. Which is bad. So here’s a chance to get a little exercise.

[Read More] ]]> http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/08/exercise-your-right-to-vote-right-now-really/ Tue, 19 Aug 2010 01:03:00 GMT http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/08/conversation-with-dr-anwar-ul-ghani/
Back in April I had the great pleasure of meeting Dr. Anwar Ghani and Aliya Danzeisen while visiting Hamilton. Dr. Ghani is the President of the Federation of Islamic Associations of New Zealand (FIANZ), and Ms. Danzeisen is active in the Islamic Women's Council of New Zealand. We share a variety of interests, and Aliya is originally from Brooklyn (New York, not Wellington).
[Read More] ]]> http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/08/conversation-with-dr-anwar-ul-ghani/ Tue, 18 Aug 2010 01:03:00 GMT http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/08/ambassador-moore-presents-credentials/

Congratulations to my friend Mike Moore, who is now not only Right Honourable but also quite Excellent, i.e., officially New Zealand's Ambassador to the United States of America.

Mike recently presented his credentials to President Obama in the traditional ceremony in which a new ambassador delivers documents proving that he or she is the duly appointed representative of his or her home country. (Upon arrival in New Zealand, I presented my own credentials – an original letter of appointment signed by President Obama – to Governor-General Rt Hon Sir Anand Satyanand after a powhiri at Vogel House.)

[Read More] ]]> http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/08/ambassador-moore-presents-credentials/ Tue, 18 Aug 2010 01:03:00 GMT http://www.whitehouse.gov/blog/2010/08/13/relief-efforts-response-flooding-pakistan-how-you-can-help Washington — In a realignment of global health funding intended to strengthen country engagement and national health systems rather than to fight illness disease by disease, the United States is working around the world to implement the Obama administration's new Global Health Initiative (GHI).

Through the initiative, the United States is investing $63 billion over six years to help partner countries build on the success of their efforts to fight HIV/AIDS, malaria and tuberculosis to bolster the health of women, newborns and children.

[Read More] ]]> http://www.whitehouse.gov/blog/2010/08/13/relief-efforts-response-flooding-pakistan-how-you-can-help Tue, 18 Aug 2010 01:03:00 GMT http://www.america.gov/st/scitech-english/2010/August/20100817125637lcnirellep0.3855097.html

Washington — In a realignment of global health funding intended to strengthen country engagement and national health systems rather than to fight illness disease by disease, the United States is working around the world to implement the Obama administration's new Global Health Initiative (GHI).

Through the initiative, the United States is investing $63 billion over six years to help partner countries build on the success of their efforts to fight HIV/AIDS, malaria and tuberculosis to bolster the health of women, newborns and children.

[Read More] ]]> http://www.america.gov/st/scitech-english/2010/August/20100817125637lcnirellep0.3855097.html Tue, 18 Aug 2010 01:03:00 GMT http://www.state.gov/p/nea/rls/rm/146037.htm MR. TONER: Good afternoon. Welcome to the State Department. It's my great pleasure to introduce a man who literally needs no introduction, Ambassador Christopher Hill, who is just out of his 16-month tour in Iraq and here to answer your questions about his time there and about the transition and, looking forward, to give his perspective. Thanks for coming.

AMBASSADOR HILL: Thanks a lot, Mark. It was actually not a 16-month tour because it was supposed to be one year, but as they say in the World Cup, I went into extra time there. But it’s a pleasure to be here. I left Iraq just a few days ago, said goodbye to people at the Embassy. It's quite a time of transition in the Embassy. We have a whole new cast of characters coming in. And I think anyone who deals with Iraq is very much aware of the fact that the problems of that country are severe but the potential is very great. And I think those of us who are there for the time that we're there do our best to make things better, leave things better for our successors, and I hope I've done that for Ambassador Jim Jeffrey, who, as I understand, leaves tonight. Jim and I have talked on many occasions about the transition there. There’s a lot going on.

[Read More/Watch Video] ]]> http://www.state.gov/p/nea/rls/rm/146037.htm Tue, 18 Aug 2010 01:03:00 GMT http://www.flickr.com/photos/us_embassy_newzealand/sets/72157624625254303/

The Ambassador made an official visit to Palmerston North on Friday, August 13th during which he visited Massey University for the first time.

As part of his University program, the Ambassador toured the Institute of Veterinary, Animal and Biomedical Sciences hosted by Head of Institute Professor Frazer Allan and Professor Hugh Blair.

This involved seeing, first hand, the work of the Institute's studentsand academic staff. The Ambassador was highly impressed with thepassion and commitment of the students and staff to their work.

An important part of this involves researching and diagnosing anextensive array of animal health issues.

The Ambassador saw a variety of animals under care, including a Yellow-Eyed Penguin, a Harrier hawk and a native Skink. A special highlightfor the Ambassador was his introduction to "Chelsea" a mature New Zealand Kiwi who was recovering in the Institute's specialist care centre.

[View Photos] ]]> http://www.flickr.com/photos/us_embassy_newzealand/sets/72157624625254303/ Tue, 18 Aug 2010 01:03:00 GMT http://www.state.gov/r/pa/prs/ps/2010/08/145940.htm Secretary of State Hillary Clinton will deliver remarks on Monday, August 16 at 11:30 a.m. on the Obama Administration's Global Health Initiative. The speech will take place at Johns Hopkins University’s Paul H. Nitze School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS) in the Kenney Auditorium.

Secretary Clinton's speech will focus on The Global Health Initiative, a centerpiece of the Obama Administration's foreign policy and an expression of U.S. values and leadership in the world. Secretary Clinton will describe the Global Health Initiative's core principles, and call on governments, organizations, and individuals to join the United States in pursuing a sustainable approach for delivering essential health services to more people in more places.

SAIS will host a live webcast of the event accessible at www.sais-jhu.edu. [Read More] ]]> http://www.state.gov/r/pa/prs/ps/2010/08/145940.htm Mon, 16 Aug 2010 01:03:00 GMT http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/08/surprise-visitors-from-schuylkill-county/

I was slaving away at my desk this morning when I got a call that some folks from Orwigsburg, Pennsylvania were at the Embassy's front gate to say hello. That's the kind of neighborly thing we do back in Schuylkill County, so I went down and had a nice chat with my new friends Jake, Diane, Jacob(15), and Maya (12) Throne. The Thrones are gradually making their way through the country from Auckland to Queenstown, on the vacation of a lifetime. [Read More] ]]> http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/08/surprise-visitors-from-schuylkill-county/ Mon, 16 Aug 2010 01:03:00 GMT http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/arc_pubs_espot.html E-Spotlite is another publication from the ARC with each issue focusing on a topic of current interest. They consist of a list of selected websites and online publications - current as at the date they are written. No recommendation is made in respect of non-U.S. Government web sites listed. If you are interested in a particular subject, please contact the American Reference Center.
[Read the E-Spotlites for August] ]]> http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/arc_pubs_espot.html Mon, 16 Aug 2010 01:03:00 GMT http://www.facebook.com/notes/us-embassy-new-zealand/this-week-in-history/429423703853 In 1999, in its resolution 54/120, the United Nations General Assembly endorsed the recommendation made by the World Conference of Ministers Responsible for Youth that 12 August be declared International Youth Day. The Assembly recommended that public information activities be organized to support the Day as a way to promote better awareness of the World Programme of Action for Youth, adopted by the General Assembly in 1995.

International Youth Day will be celebrated at United Nations headquarters in New York with the global launch event of the International Year of Youth. The event will be a celebration of young peoples' energy, imagination and initiatives and will recognize their crucial contributions to enhancing peace and development. [Read More] ]]> http://www.facebook.com/notes/us-embassy-new-zealand/this-week-in-history/429423703853 Fri, 13 Aug 2010 03:03:00 GMT http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/08/dr-limaye-talks-east-asia/

The Embassy was delighted recently to host Dr. Satu Limaye, director of the East-West Center in Washington, DC, for a busy schedule of lectures in Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch as part of our visiting speakers program. Dr. Limaye is a dynamic thinker on matters Asia-Pacific, and he is the kind of speaker who can really engage an audience. I particularly enjoyed meeting him because we share a past-life experience – we both spent time in Japan early in our careers as Luce Scholars.

I pulled Dr. Limaye aside at a reception to ask him a few questions so that I could share his answers with my readers: [Read Interview/Watch Presentation] ]]> http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/08/dr-limaye-talks-east-asia/ Fri, 13 Aug 2010 03:03:00 GMT http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/arcinfocus.html To highlight New Zealand Islam Awareness Week and mark the beginning of Ramadan on August 11, we bring you an In Focus edition offering a resources and information on this important time in the Islamic calendar: Ramadan.

Ramadan is observed in the ninth month of the year in the Islamic Calendar. Many of the world's 1.5 billion Muslims will observe the month of Ramadan in different ways, blending their own cultural customs with Islamic traditions of prayer and fasting. In the United States alone, Muslims come from more than 80 countries and represent a mosaic of ethnic, linguistic, ideological, social and economic groups. Although the principal teachings of Ramadan remain consistent, the fusion between religious tradition and diverse cultures embodies the interconnectivity and diffusion of a modern, globalized world. [Resources] [President Obama's Message] [Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton's Message] ]]> http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/arcinfocus.html Thu, 12 Aug 2010 03:03:00 GMT http://www.america.gov/st/develop-english/2010/August/20100811155155esnamfuak0.2113153.html

Washington — In response to a $459.7 million flash appeal for Pakistan launched by the U.N. Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, the Obama administration announced it is providing an additional $16.25 million to help the U.N. High Commissioner for Refugees and the International Committee of the Red Cross assist flood victims.

The new funding, which is being provided by the State Department's Bureau of Population, Refugees and Migration, comes in addition to the $55 million the United States has already committed to the relief effort, State Department spokesman P.J. Crowley told reporters August 11. The United States has now pledged $71.25 million for Pakistan flood relief. [read more] ]]> http://www.america.gov/st/develop-english/2010/August/20100811155155esnamfuak0.2113153.html Thu, 12 Aug 2010 03:03:00 GMT http://www.flickr.com/photos/us_embassy_newzealand/sets/72157624566213745/ On August 9, 2010, Robert Sutter - Visiting Professor, School of Foreign Service, Georgetown University Washington, D.C - spoke at US Embassy Wellington on the U.S. Policy and Prospects in Asia During the Obama Administration.

Based among other things on a forth-coming book on US-China relations and on articles on contemporary Southeast Asia, Asian Perspective, and many others.

Robert Sutter has been Visiting Professor of Asian Studies at the School of Foreign Service, Georgetown University, since 2001. Prior to taking this full-time position, Sutter specialized in Asian and Pacific Affairs and US foreign policy in a US government career of 33 years involving the Congressional Research Service of the Library of Congress, the Central Intelligence Agency, the Department of State, and the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. He was for many years the Senior Specialist and Director of the Foreign Affairs and National Defense Division of the Congressional Research Service. He also was the National Intelligence Officer for East Asia and the Pacific at the US Government's National Intelligence Council, and the China Division Director at the Department of State's Bureau of Intelligence and Research. A Ph.D. graduate in History and East Asian Languages from Harvard University, Robert Sutter taught part-time for over thirty years at Georgetown, George Washington, Johns Hopkins Universities, or the University of Virginia. He has published 17 books, numerous articles and several hundred government reports dealing with contemporary East Asian and Pacific countries and their relations with the United States.

His most recent book is The United States in Asia (Rowman and Littlefield 2008). [View Photos] [Watch Presentation] ]]> http://www.flickr.com/photos/us_embassy_newzealand/sets/72157624566213745/ Tue, 10 Aug 2010 03:03:00 GMT http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/fp_esta_vwp.html Beginning on September 8, a fee of US$14 will be introduced for a new or renewed electronic travel authorization (ESTA). Please click here for further information [More about ESTA] ]]> http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/fp_esta_vwp.html Tue, 10 Aug 2010 03:03:00 GMT http://www.flickr.com/photos/us_embassy_newzealand/sets/72157624567985219/

Four New Zealand ships were chosen for 2009 Automated Mutual-Assistance Vessel Rescue (AMVER) awards for active participation: the Kakariki, the Tore the Forum Samoa II, the Tangaroa. The awards program recognizes those vessels, which regularly participate in the AMVER system. AMVER is an international program, operated by the U.S. Coast Guard, to assist the safety of vessels on the high seas. Merchant vessels of all nations are encouraged to send their sail plans, including departure message, periodic position reports, and arrival message, to the Coast Guard's AMVER Center. The information is processed in a computer database that maintains a plot of the positions of these ships throughout their voyages. Rescue authorities around the world can then obtain, through U.S. Coast Guard Rescue Coordination Centers, a list of participating ships in the vicinity of an emergency so that assistance can be sought from vessels nearby. For 51 years, AMVER has been effective in arranging emergency assistance to those who need it on the high seas.

In 2009, AMVER merchant ship responses resulted in 237 lives saved and 18 lives assisted (for medical attention, evacuation, communications, food/fuel/supplies, etc). AMVER ships conducted 308 searches at sea to verify electronic distress alerts, thus preserving limited rescue assets for genuine emergencies. Additional information on the AMVER program, including country award statistics, is available at www.AMVER.com, or the AMVER blog at www.AMVERuscg.blogspot.com. [View Photos] ]]> http://www.flickr.com/photos/us_embassy_newzealand/sets/72157624567985219/ Tue, 10 Aug 2010 03:03:00 GMT http://www.state.gov/s/ct/rls/crt/2009/index.htm Transnational terrorism remains the foremost security threat the United States faces, and the Obama administration has been working to strengthen the nation's counterterrorism strategy.

U.S. law requires the Secretary of State to provide Congress, by April 30 of each year, a full and complete report on terrorism with regard to those countries and groups meeting criteria set forth in the legislation. This annual report is entitled Country Reports on Terrorism. Beginning with the report for 2004, it replaced the previously published Patterns of Global Terrorism. [View Report] [Fact Sheet] ]]> http://www.state.gov/s/ct/rls/crt/2009/index.htm Fri, 06 Aug 2010 03:03:00 GMT http://www.facebook.com/notes/us-embassy-new-zealand/defining-internet-freedom/447007038853

The issues that will affect global citizens' access to information are being contested every day. Learn more about Internet freedom in the latest issue of our eJournal USA. [View EJournal] ]]> http://www.facebook.com/notes/us-embassy-new-zealand/defining-internet-freedom/447007038853 Fri, 06 Aug 2010 03:03:00 GMT http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/voter_registration.html The 2010 U. S. election cycle is in full swing. New laws in effect this year impact the absentee voting process. We encourage every overseas U.S. citizen to act now so that your opinion is heard in the November 2010 general elections. The official U.S. Government resource for overseas absentee voters is the Federal Voting Assistance Program (FVAP) website [Find out more] ]]> http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/voter_registration.html Fri, 06 Aug 2010 03:03:00 GMT http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/arc_pubs.html Spotlight is a monthly digest of scholarly and mainstream articles available online on topics such as International Relations, Environment, Democracy, Economic, National Security, Global, Social and Cultural issues. August Spotlight: Ramadan and Muslims in America. ]]> http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/arc_pubs.html Fri, 06 Aug 2010 03:03:00 GMT http://www.facebook.com/newzealand.usembassy#!/newzealand.usembassy?v=app_17037175766

WIN A PRESIDENT OBAMA MYSTERY PRIZE PACK (Answer on Facebook or Twitter)

To celebrate President Obama's 49th birthday, our 500 fans on Facebook and 1000 Twitter followers milestone (thanks all), we are goiving away a President Obama Mystery Prize Park. Just answer 3 questions and be in to win… [quiz questions] ]]> http://www.facebook.com/newzealand.usembassy#!/newzealand.usembassy?v=app_17037175766 Fri, 06 Aug 2010 03:03:00 GMT http://www.facebook.com/notes/us-embassy-new-zealand/win-a-book-infocus-quiz-answer-on-facebook-or-twitter/447319953853 Answer the 3 questions below correctly and go in the draw to win Sacred Legacy: Edward S. Curtis And The North American Indian (Hardcover Edition). We will draw and announce a lucky winner* on Monday August 23, 2010 in the comments section below.

The questions are open to US Embassy Facebook Fans and Twitter Followers. To answer on Twitter, just add #infocus to your tweet.

The Quiz questions are based on the International Day of the World's Indigenous People. Hint: You can find your answers in the content and/or links on our Infocus: International Day of the World&s Indigenous People. [Quiz Questions] ]]> http://www.facebook.com/notes/us-embassy-new-zealand/win-a-book-infocus-quiz-answer-on-facebook-or-twitter/447319953853 Tue, 03 Aug 2010 03:03:00 GMT http://www.facebook.com/notes/us-embassy-new-zealand/presidents-forum-with-young-african-leaders/447351358853 "This is a new moment of great promise. Only this time, we've learned that it will not be giants like Nkrumah and Kenyatta who will determine Africa's future… It will be the young people brimming with talent and energy and hope who can claim the future that so many in previous generations never realized." – President Barack Obama [Read More] ]]> http://www.facebook.com/notes/us-embassy-new-zealand/presidents-forum-with-young-african-leaders/447351358853 Tue, 03 Aug 2010 03:03:00 GMT http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/kurt_campbell.html Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs Kurt Campbell will travel to New Zealand and Vanuatu August 2-7, 2010.

Assistant Secretary Campbell will arrive in Wellington on August 4. While there, he will meet with New Zealand senior government leaders.

On August 5, Assistant Secretary Campbell will arrive in Port Vila to lead the U.S. interagency delegation at the Pacific Island Forum (PIF) Post Forum Dialogue. The PIF is an inter-governmental organization that aims to enhance cooperation between the independent countries of the Pacific Ocean and represent their interests. The Post Forum Dialogue provides an opportunity for key partners to meet with members of the PIF to discuss issues such as climate change, maritime security, and economic development. Assistant Secretary Campbell will meet with senior leaders from several Pacific Island countries, Australia, and New Zealand. He will also meet with senior officials from other Post Forum Dialogue partners, including China, Japan, and the European Union. [link] ]]> http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/kurt_campbell.html Tue, 03 Aug 2010 03:03:00 GMT http://www.whitehouse.gov/blog/2010/08/02/president-obama-end-combat-operations-iraq-our-troops-while-our-country-has-sometime

Today, your legacy of service is carried on by a new generation of Americans. Some stepped forward in a time of peace, not foreseeing years of combat. Others stepped forward in this time of war, knowing they could be sent into harm's way. For the past nine years, in Afghanistan and Iraq, they have borne the burdens of war. They, and their families, have faced the greatest test in the history of our all-volunteer force, serving tour after tour, year after year. Through their extraordinary service, they have written their own chapter in the American story. And by any measure, they have earned their place among the greatest of generations... [Read More] ]]> http://www.whitehouse.gov/blog/2010/08/02/president-obama-end-combat-operations-iraq-our-troops-while-our-country-has-sometime Tue, 03 Aug 2010 03:03:00 GMT http://my.barackobama.com/page/content/barackbirthday Supporters are joining the First Lady in sending President Obama a card to wish him a happy 49th birthday on August 4th.

Sign the President's birthday card and let him know you're ready to take on the year ahead alongside him. [Read More] ]]> http://my.barackobama.com/page/content/barackbirthday Tue, 03 Aug 2010 03:03:00 GMT http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/08/democracy-is/ How would you finish that sentence? What adjective, noun, phrase, or clause would you use? What does the concept of democracy mean to you?

My guess is that if you live in a democratic society, you don't think much about it. You perhaps take it for granted. You might not participate fully in the democratic processes around you. You probably sometimes complain about democracy being messy, inefficient, or frustrating. You might even express admiration or idle preference for authoritarian regimes that deal with obstacles and challenges – including human ones – quickly, quietly, and with cold-eyed finality. Such corrosive nonchalance, of course, is dangerous.[Read More/View Winning Videos] ]]> http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/08/democracy-is/ Mon, 02 Aug 2010 03:03:00 GMT http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/07/samoa%e2%80%99s-anne-rasmussen-and-cook%e2%80%99s-teresa-matamaki-en-route-to-washington/ As you know from prior posts, I am a partisan of exchange programs and study tours. The most recent visit that we have been able to arrange is particularly exciting.

Under the auspices of the Department's International Visitor Leadership Program, fourteen officials from Pacific Island nations will spend the next three weeks in the U.S. discussing climate change policies, renewable energy research, adaptation approaches, and mitigation technologies.

Included in the delegation is Anne Irene Rasmussen, the Principal Climate Change Officer at Samoa's Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment. Also included is Teresa Miimetua Matamaki from the Cook Islands National Environment Service. [Read More] ]]> http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/07/samoa%e2%80%99s-anne-rasmussen-and-cook%e2%80%99s-teresa-matamaki-en-route-to-washington/ Mon, 02 Aug 2010 03:03:00 GMT http://www.whitehouse.gov/blog/2010/07/30/president-obama-detroit-fight-americas-workers

Today the President was in Detroit visiting workers at a Chrysler plant and a GM plant that have not only survived, but found success after critics looking to score political points claimed there was no hope for them. For those critics the President offered a lesson: "Don't bet against the American worker."

During the two years since the economy took its hard downward turn, millions of Americans have had to fight with everything they had to stay afloat, to keep food on the table, to keep their businesses in business – and nowhere has that been more true than in Detroit. [Read More] ]]> http://www.whitehouse.gov/blog/2010/07/30/president-obama-detroit-fight-americas-workers Mon, 02 Aug 2010 03:03:00 GMT http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/07/lincoln-books-problem-solving-fieldays-off/

Once again my travel schedule has kept me away from my computer for awhile, so things have backed up. Sorry about that.

Happily, I had a great day back in the office yesterday. I hosted approximately fifty Year-13 students from Lincoln High School in Canterbury who were on a field trip to Wellington. My colleagues Laura and Shauna showed the group around the Embassy. I then spent about 90 minutes talking with the students about what Ambassadors and Embassies do. The rollicking discussion was vigorous, probing, and great fun. If the group is representative of Lincoln, then the teachers (and parents) down there are doing a superb job. [Read More] ]]> http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/07/lincoln-books-problem-solving-fieldays-off/ Mon, 02 Aug 2010 03:03:00 GMT http://www.flickr.com/photos/us_embassy_newzealand/sets/72157624598759896/

We were lucky to have Lincoln High School visit us on Wednesday, July 28, 2010. The Year 13 students visited the embassy as part of their social studies field trip to Wellington, to learn about different systems of government. Ambassador David Huebner spoke to the students about what an embassy does, about his job as U.S. Ambassador, and how he came to be where is today. A lively Q and A followed, where Ambassador Huebner answered a whole range of thoughtful questions about the embassy, U.S. culture and education, the U.S. government and constitution, and the United States-New Zealand bilateral relationship. [View Photos] ]]> http://www.flickr.com/photos/us_embassy_newzealand/sets/72157624598759896/ Wed, 28 Jul 2010 03:03:00 GMT http://www.flickr.com/photos/us_embassy_newzealand/sets/72157624583323270/

Dr Satu Limaye Spoke at the US Embassy Wellington - 'An Interim Assessment of U.S.-Asia Pacific Relations During the Obama Administration'.

SATU LIMAYE was named director of the East-West Center Washington in February 2007. Immediately prior to being appointed, he worked with the Institute for Defense Analyses in Alexandria, Va., as a member of the research staff. Previously, he served as director of the Honolulu-based APCSS' research and publications division from July 1998 to October 2006. [Read More/View Photos] ]]> http://www.flickr.com/photos/us_embassy_newzealand/sets/72157624583323270/ Wed, 28 Jul 2010 03:03:00 GMT http://www.america.gov/st/energy-english/2010/July/20100726122734lcnirellep0.290188.html Washington — Despite a continued weak global economy, investments in solar, wind and other renewable energy projects outpaced fossil fuel investments in 2009 for the second year in a row, a new study from the United Nations Environment Programme shows. This was true in both the United States and in the European Union. [Read More] ]]> http://www.america.gov/st/energy-english/2010/July/20100726122734lcnirellep0.290188.html Wed, 26 Jul 2010 03:03:00 GMT http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/voter_registration.html Voting by Absentee Ballot for U.S. Elections from New Zealand.

New Absentee Voting Information for U.S. Citizens Abroad.

DON'T WAIT – PLAN TO REGISTER TO VOTE NOW!

The 2010 U. S. election cycle is in full swing. New laws in effect this year impact the absentee voting process. We encourage every overseas U.S. citizen to act now so that your opinion is heard in the November 2010 general elections. The official U.S. Government resource for overseas absentee voters is the Federal Voting Assistance Program (FVAP) website. [Read More] ]]> http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/voter_registration.html Wed, 26 Jul 2010 03:03:00 GMT http://www.america.gov/st/scitech-english/2010/July/20100719123211lcnirellep0.6665918.html

With the HIV/AIDS epidemic still raging and the global economic crisis threatening desperately needed funding, an estimated 20,000 participants from 185 countries are assembling in Vienna July 18–23 for the 18th International AIDS Conference (AIDS 2010). [read more]

Related:
Answer the 3 questions that relate to the page on 'Infocus: International AIDS conference (18-24 July 2010)' correctly and go in the draw to win 'The National Parks of America' by Michael Brett. We will draw and announce a lucky winner* on Monday August 2, 2010. [Find out more and Answer the Quiz here] ]]> http://www.america.gov/st/scitech-english/2010/July/20100719123211lcnirellep0.6665918.html Fri, 23 Jul 2010 03:03:00 GMT http://www.facebook.com/notes/us-embassy-new-zealand/win-a-book-hey-us-embassy-new-zealand-facebook-fans-answer-a-quiz-and-win-a-book/443366238853 Answer the 3 questions that relate to the page on 'Infocus: International AIDS conference (18-24 July 2010)' correctly and go in the draw to win 'The National Parks of America' by Michael Brett. We will draw and announce a lucky winner* on Monday August 2, 2010. [Find out more and Answer the Quiz here] ]]> http://www.facebook.com/notes/us-embassy-new-zealand/win-a-book-hey-us-embassy-new-zealand-facebook-fans-answer-a-quiz-and-win-a-book/443366238853 Mon, 19 Jul 2010 03:03:00 GMT http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/arcinfocus.html From July 18 to 23, Ambassador Eric Goosby, U.S. Global AIDS Coordinator, will lead the U.S. delegation to the XVIII International AIDS Conference in Vienna, Austria. The conference brings together an estimated 25,000 participants, including scientists, health care providers, political, community and business leaders, government, non-governmental and multilateral organization representatives, and people living with HIV/AIDS, to discuss efforts to stop HIV/AIDS. Reflecting America's leadership in the fight against global AIDS through the President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), the U.S. will use this opportunity to share data, best practices, and lessons learned from PEPFAR-supported programs with the global community of HIV/AIDS program implementers. [Read More/More Resources] ]]> http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/arcinfocus.html Mon, 19 Jul 2010 03:03:00 GMT http://www.america.gov/world/scasia.html

Secretary Clinton travels to Pakistan and Afghanistan to strengthen strategic partnerships in the region. [Learn More] ]]> http://www.america.gov/world/scasia.html Mon, 19 Jul 2010 03:03:00 GMT http://www.america.gov/st/energy-english/2010/July/20100716135633esnamfuak0.8290979.html Washington — President Obama welcomed the fitting of a new cap over BP's leaking Deepwater Horizon oil well in the Gulf of Mexico as a sign of progress in dealing with the environmental disaster, but warned Americans "we’re not done," even if continuing tests indicate the leak has been plugged.

"The new cap is good news. Either we will be able to use it to stop the flow, or we will be able to use it to capture almost all of the oil until the relief well is done," Obama told reporters at the White House July 16. But he added, "We're not going to know for certain which approach makes sense until additional data is in." [Read More] ]]> http://www.america.gov/st/energy-english/2010/July/20100716135633esnamfuak0.8290979.html Mon, 19 Jul 2010 03:03:00 GMT http://www.america.gov/world/scasia.html Your Voice. Your Photo.

Secretary Clinton travels to Pakistan and Afghanistan to strengthen strategic partnerships in the region. [Learn More] ]]> http://www.america.gov/world/scasia.html Mon, 19 Jul 2010 03:03:00 GMT http://www.facebook.com/notes/us-embassy-new-zealand/democracy-photo-challenge/439999318853 Your Voice. Your Photo.

The Challenge Complete the phrase "Democracy is…" with an original photograph and share it with the world.

The Prize Special exhibition of your photo at the United Nations and at galleries in New York and Los Angeles. [Learn More] ]]> http://www.facebook.com/notes/us-embassy-new-zealand/democracy-photo-challenge/439999318853 Wed, 14 Jul 2010 03:03:00 GMT http://www.facebook.com/notes/us-embassy-new-zealand/this-week-in-history/429423703853 Each week we take a brief look at significant dates in history. Step back in time and see what was happening today.

This Week in History - 11 July - 17 July, 2010.

World Population Day was established by the Governing Council of the United Nations Development Programme in 1989 as a way to focus attention on the urgency and importance of population issues. It was an outgrowth of the interest generated by the Day of Five Billion, which was observed on 11 July 1987. Each year UNFPA selects a different theme to rally around. World Population Day 2010, Everyone Counts, will underscore the importance of data for development. It will foster an understanding of why reliable, disaggregated data is so crucial to progress and encourage people to participate in census and other data collection efforts. [See what else was happening this week in history] ]]> http://www.facebook.com/notes/us-embassy-new-zealand/this-week-in-history/429423703853 Wed, 14 Jul 2010 03:03:00 GMT http://www.facebook.com/notes/us-embassy-new-zealand/white-house-announces-national-hivaids-strategy/439987753853 $30 Million of Prevention Fund Dedicated to Implementation of Strategy WASHINGTON, D.C. – In the United States, approximately 56,000 people become infected with HIV each year and more than 1.1 million Americans are living with HIV. To combat this growing epidemic, the White House today released the National HIV/AIDS Strategy (NHAS) and accompanying NHAS Federal Implementation Plan. Secretary Sebelius also announced that $30 million of the Affordable Care Act's Prevention Fund will be dedicated to the implementation of the NHAS. This funding will support the development of combination prevention interventions. It will also support improved surveillance, expanded and targeted testing, and other activities. "We can't afford complacency – not when in the ten minutes I've been talking to you, another American has just contracted HIV," Secretary Sebelius said. "That's why our strategy calls for aggressive efforts to educate Americans about how dangerous this disease still is and the steps they can take to protect themselves and their loved ones." [read more] ]]> http://www.facebook.com/notes/us-embassy-new-zealand/white-house-announces-national-hivaids-strategy/439987753853 Wed, 14 Jul 2010 03:03:00 GMT http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/07/toasting-the-president/

Just when I thought I had seen and heard everything, I met a guy with 4,234 pieces of toast and a grand vision.

Yes, that's me with a portrait of President Obama (center) and Wellington artist Maurice Bennett (right).

Maurice's favored medium is bread. He has toasted an array of political figures such as Prime Minister John Key and former Prime Minister Helen Clark, as well as cultural icons such as Elvis and the Mona Lisa. He once sold a billboard-sized portrait of Dame Edna Everage to a bread company for $15,000. He also does abstract works in toast. A Renaissance man not confined to one medium, he has rendered Eminem in … (come on, take a guess) … M&M's. [Read More] [View Photos] ]]> http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/07/toasting-the-president/ Tue, 13 Jul 2010 07:03:00 GMT http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/07/happy-arbor-day/

I unfortunately had a conflicting prior engagement, so my colleague Laura Scandurra attended Greytown's 120th Arbor Day celebration on my behalf last weekend. Greytown has the distinction of having held New Zealand’s first Arbor Day, so it was important that we attend. The celebration included an educational display on the history of Arbor Day, a parade, an official welcome ceremony, remarks by Minister of Conservation Kate Wilkinson, tree plantings, and even roasted chestnuts. Laura says it was very much like the celebrations she remembers from her home town in the American Midwest. [Read More] [View Photos] ]]> http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/07/happy-arbor-day/ Tue, 13 Jul 2010 07:03:00 GMT http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/07/journey-to-the-ends-of-southland/

I like being places where I can see just blue water and/or blue sky with little that is man-made or non-blue in my field of vision. For that reason, I tend to be drawn toward rocky points, lands ends, and mountain tops.

I also like being places with little or no artifice but lots of heart. For that reason, I have always been drawn to small towns and farms, as well as to the folks who populate them.

For those reasons and many others, I have been greatly looking forward to visiting Southland....

[Read More] [View Photos] ]]> http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/07/journey-to-the-ends-of-southland/ Fri, 09 Jul 2010 07:03:00 GMT http://www.facebook.com/notes/us-embassy-new-zealand/e-spotlights-american-reference-center/356733243853 Spotlight is a monthly digest of scholarly and mainstream articles available online on topics such as International Relations, Environment, Democracy, Economic, National Security, Global, Social and Cultural issues.

E-Spotlite is an occasional series of webliographies on specific, topical subjects like "Elections 2008", "U.S.-China/Taiwan Relations", "Emissions Trading and Greenhouse Gases", "Think Tanks and Foreign Policy," etc.

For the latest Spotlights and E-Spotlites...[click here] ]]> http://www.facebook.com/notes/us-embassy-new-zealand/e-spotlights-american-reference-center/356733243853 Fri, 09 Jul 2010 07:03:00 GMT http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/07/happy-independence-day/

From Ambassador Huebner's Blog: Because of the vagaries of the weather this time of year, we held our celebration at the Intercontinental Hotel in the form of an evening reception, rather than an afternoon picnic out in a park. Because of the size of the available room, we had approximately 350 guests drawn from all segments of New Zealand society including university and secondary school students, teachers, and members of the faith, philanthropic, arts, LGBT, business, and public service communities. Among the many public servants present were Ministers Gerry Brownlee, Simon Power, Dr. Wayne Mapp, Peter Dunne, Heather Roy, and Tony Ryall; Attorney General Chris Finlayson; Members of Parliament Clayton Cosgrove, Winnie Laban, Grant Robertson, and Dr. Kennedy Graham; and former New Zealand Ambassadors to the U.S. Merwyn Norrish and Dr. John Wood. [Read More] [View Photos] [View Videos] ]]> http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/07/happy-independence-day/ Wed, 07 Jul 2010 07:03:00 GMT http://www.flickr.com/photos/us_embassy_newzealand/sets/72157624315131631/

Invercargill's Mayor, Tim Shadbolt, introduced the Ambassador to Invercargill's cultural achievements such the 'World's Fastest Indian', a film by Roger Donaldson about local hero Burt Munro.

The Ambassador was in Invercargill at the invitation of the Federated Farmers to give a speech at their annual conference.

The Ambassador also visited:

• Ruru School, a special needs unit catering for juniors through to 2I year olds, run by devoted principal Erin Cairns and staff. The school performed a proud welcome haka and there was a performance from the school rock band.
• Southland Girl's High School.
• Alfons Zeestraten's state of the art 'wintering shed'. His very large herd of dairy cows do not have to be sent away to drier pastures in winter, they get to stay at home in open plan luxury accommodation (complete with automatic rotating brush back scratchers).
• Fonterra milk powder plant which is capable of handling 15 million litres of milk a day.
• New Zealand's first earth worm based sewage treatment farm and a leading 'environmental engineering' project.
• Bluff: hosts and quota owners Willy and Karen Caulder along with Graeme Wright from Barnes Oysters had the Ambassador eating raw and cooked oysters by 9.45am. The Ambassador also toured Willy and Karen's boat 'The Argosy'.

[View Photos] ]]> http://www.flickr.com/photos/us_embassy_newzealand/sets/72157624315131631/ Wed, 07 Jul 2010 07:03:00 GMT http://www.facebook.com/topic.php?uid=298591612622&topic=15219 Happy Independence Day!! How you are planning to celebrate Independence Day in New Zealand?

Share your 4th of July in New Zealand celebration plans on Facebook or tweet us at @usembassynz For songs, recipes, and fun facts about Independence Day, visit usa.gov [Share your thoughts here] ]]> http://www.facebook.com/topic.php?uid=298591612622&topic=15219 Fri, 02 Jul 2010 07:03:00 GMT http://www.facebook.com/topic.php?uid=298591612622&topic=15219 Happy Independence Day!! How you are planning to celebrate Independence Day in New Zealand?

Share your 4th of July in New Zealand celebration plans on Facebook or tweet us at @usembassynz For songs, recipes, and fun facts about Independence Day, visit usa.gov [Share your thoughts here] ]]> http://www.facebook.com/topic.php?uid=298591612622&topic=15219 Fri, 02 Jul 2010 07:03:00 GMT http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/07/a-cuppa-science/

I just welcomed 17 American graduate students to the Embassy for afternoon tea. Hailing from universities across the United States, the students will spend the next 10 weeks at various New Zealand universities researching subjects as diverse as "The Effect of Polar Ancestry on Heat Tolerance of the New Zealand Temperate Black Cod" and "Using Detrital Thermo-chronology to Investigate Exhumation of the Eastern Southern Alps, NZ." [read more] ]]> http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/07/a-cuppa-science/ Fri, 02 Jul 2010 07:00:00 GMT http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/immigration_reform.html

THE PRESIDENT: Thank you very much. Thank you. Thank you. (Applause.) Everyone please have a seat. Thank you very much. Let me thank Pastor Hybels from near my hometown in Chicago, who took time off his vacation to be here today. We are blessed to have him.

I want to thank President Neil Kerwin and our hosts here at American University; acknowledge my outstanding Secretary of Labor, Hilda Solis, and members of my administration; all the members of Congress -- Hilda deserves applause. (Applause.) To all the members of Congress, the elected officials, faith and law enforcement, labor, business leaders and immigration advocates who are here today -- thank you for your presence. [read more] ]]> http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/immigration_reform.html Thu, 01 Jul 2010 07:00:00 GMT http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/mabassador/2010/07/parliamentarians-head-to-u-s/

I am an enthusiastic booster of exchange programs that send people — particularly young people – abroad to study, work, or just have a look around. I spend a good bit of my time as Ambassador supporting existing exchange programs, encouraging participation, and developing new opportunities for travel and study abroad. In my opinion there is no better way to advance mutual understanding than to get people working, playing, or studying together … and not just talking at each other. There is no better way to learn about a society than to parachute in and become part of it for awhile. [read more] ]]> http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/07/parliamentarians-head-to-u-s/ Thu, 01 Jul 2010 07:00:00 GMT http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/07/kiwis-solve-problems-in-wisconsin/

Three teams of students from New Zealand have won top prizes at the 2010 Future Problem Solving Program International (FPSPI) championships in the United States. Hosted by the University of Wisconsin at La Crosse, the competition capped FPSPI’s 2009-2010 season.

The Program attracted my attention because its mission is "to develop the ability of young people globally to design and promote positive futures using critical, creative thinking." That is a laudable and important objective. We cannot solve the problems now facing our planet – let alone meet new challenges in the future – without training young people to think outside the box. We cannot strengthen, preserve, and defend democratic society – which is defined by free thought and free choice – without encouraging and equipping young people to challenge assumptions, test limitations, and construct new paradigms. [read more] ]]> http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/07/kiwis-solve-problems-in-wisconsin/ Thu, 01 Jul 2010 07:00:00 GMT http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/06/fulbright%e2%80%99s-feisty-finest-face-full-formal-fanfare/

June has been a very busy month here at Embassy Wellington and Embassy Apia, which is why I am a bit behind on my blogging. (Apologies for that.) I have been to Apia, Auckland, Bluff, Christchurch, Dacre, Edendale, Hamilton, Invercargill, Porirua, and Poutasi, among other places. And if I am reading my schedule correctly, there seems to be one more flight ahead of me before the calendar flips to July.

Fortunately, just about all of June's activity has been interesting and fun. One of the highlights was the annual Fulbright Awards ceremony that I attended last week at the Beehive. My friend the Hon. Dr. Wayne Mapp, Minister of Research Science and Technology, graciously hosted the event. He and I both addressed the packed hall. [read more] [view photos] ]]> http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/06/fulbright%e2%80%99s-feisty-finest-face-full-formal-fanfare/ Wed, 30 Jun 2010 07:00:00 GMT http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/06/hinemoana-heading-to-iowa-city/

I'm delighted to announce that one of New Zealand's most exciting poets, Hinemoana Baker, has been selected to attend the prestigious International Writing Program (IWP) at the University of Iowa this year.

Hinemoana was a superb choice for the IWP, and we at the Embassy were delighted to champion her in the process. In addition to writing poetry, she is a published fiction writer and playwright. She maintains several popular blogs. And she is a singer and spoken-word performer who has received rave reviews throughout New Zealand and Australia. I don't know where she finds all the energy … physical or creative. [read more] ]]> http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/06/hinemoana-heading-to-iowa-city/ Wed, 30 Jun 2010 07:00:00 GMT http://www.flickr.com/photos/us_embassy_newzealand/sets/72157624263821155/

"Trade policy is a key part of American leadership in the world, and it is fundamental to preserving and extending the gains from economic growth. There is a dangerously large gap between public perceptions of international trade and the findings of those who study it carefully." [read more/view photos] ]]> http://www.flickr.com/photos/us_embassy_newzealand/sets/72157624263821155/ Wed, 30 Jun 2010 07:00:00 GMT http://www.facebook.com/notes/us-embassy-new-zealand/this-week-in-history/429423703853 Each week we take a brief look at significant dates in history. Step back in time and see what was happening today.

This Week in History - 27 June -03 July, 2010
Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Pride Month (LGBT Pride Month) is currently celebrated each year in the month of June to honor the 1969 Stonewall riots in Manhattan. The Stonewall riots were a tipping point for the Gay Liberation Movement in the United States. In the United States the last Sunday in June was initially celebrated as "Gay Pride Day," but the actual day was flexible. In major cities across the nation the "day" soon grew to encompass a month-long series of events. Today, celebrations include pride parades, picnics, parties, workshops, symposia and concerts, and LGBT Pride Month events attract millions of participants around the world. Memorials are held during this month for those members of the community who have been lost to hate crimes or HIV/AIDS. The purpose of the commemorative month is to recognize the impact that lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender individuals have had on history locally, nationally, and internationally.

This Week In History Day-to-Day ]]> http://www.facebook.com/notes/us-embassy-new-zealand/this-week-in-history/429423703853 Wed, 30 Jun 2010 07:00:00 GMT http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/arcinfocus.html The International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking is observed each year on June 26 to raise awareness of the harms that illicit drugs can cause to a society. This day also serves as a symbolic call for action and cooperation to create an international society free of drug abuse. [read more] ]]> http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/arcinfocus.html Wed, 30 Jun 2010 07:00:00 GMT http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/petraeus.html

THE PRESIDENT: Good afternoon. Today I accepted General Stanley McChrystal's resignation as commander of the International Security Assistance Force in Afghanistan. I did so with considerable regret, but also with certainty that it is the right thing for our mission in Afghanistan, for our military, and for our country.

I'm also pleased to nominate General David Petraeus to take command in Afghanistan, which will allow us to maintain the momentum and leadership that we need to succeed.

I don't make this decision based on any difference in policy with General McChrystal, as we are in full agreement about our strategy. Nor do I make this decision out of any sense of personal insult. Stan McChrystal has always shown great courtesy and carried out my orders faithfully. I've got great admiration for him and for his long record of service in uniform. [read more] [view video] ]]> http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/petraeus.html Thu, 24 Jun 2010 07:00:00 GMT http://www.facebook.com/topic.php?uid=298591612622&topic=15229 Congratulations USA! USA wins Group C in the World Cup and are through to the next round. What are your thoughts on USA getting through to the next round of the World Cup? Share your thoughts: [Share your thoughts here] ]]> http://www.facebook.com/topic.php?uid=298591612622&topic=15229 Thu, 24 Jun 2010 07:00:00 GMT http://www.flickr.com/photos/us_embassy_newzealand/sets/72157624217867041/

The 42nd New Zealand National Agriculture Fieldays event took place from June 16-19, 2010 in Hamilton, New Zealand. Ambassador David Huebner attended the opening ceremony and VIP activities as well as toured the sites (including the U.S. Commercial Service New Zealand exhibit) on June 16th. Ambassador Huebner likened Fieldays to the Los Angeles County Fair, which he attends whenever he is at home in California. "I feel very comfortable among farmers, animals, crops and machinery," he said.

Accompanying Ambassador Huebner in the John Deere tractor cockpit is Kym Grimmett, Territory Manager for John Deere. Also featured is Fieldays Vice-President Lloyd Downing. [view photos] ]]> http://www.flickr.com/photos/us_embassy_newzealand/sets/72157624217867041/ Thu, 24 Jun 2010 07:00:00 GMT http://www.facebook.com/notes/us-embassy-new-zealand/this-week-in-history/429423703853 Each week we take a brief look at significant dates in history. Step back in time and see what was happening today! If you would like to know more, please do not hesitate to contact us. ]]> http://www.facebook.com/notes/us-embassy-new-zealand/this-week-in-history/429423703853 Wed, 23 Jun 2010 07:00:00 GMT http://photos.state.gov/libraries/newzealand/8558/consular/Publication3.pdf The Consular Post, our fledgling newsletter to Americans in our part of the world. We intend for this to be a friendly, lively, and informal way to share important information with you all, and somehow to combine the lightning-fast nature of today's electronic communications, with the great tradition of local newspapers of days past, that were the lifeblood of keeping abreast with the news of our communities as well as of the broader world. [Read Volume 3 here] [Read Previous Volumes] ]]> http://photos.state.gov/libraries/newzealand/8558/consular/Publication3.pdf Wed, 23 Jun 2010 07:00:00 GMT http://www.facebook.com/topic.php?uid=298591612622&topic=15220 USA and New Zealand had great results over the weekend. What are your thoughts on the performances of the USA and New Zealand teams at the World Cup? [Share your thoughts here] ]]> http://www.facebook.com/topic.php?uid=298591612622&topic=15220 Mon, 21 Jun 2010 07:00:00 GMT http://www.facebook.com/topic.php?uid=298591612622&topic=15219 The 4th of July is just around the corner, how you are planning to celebrate Independence Day if you live, or are traveling, in New Zealand?

Share your 4th of July in New Zealand celebration plans on Facebook or tweet us at @usembassynz For songs, recipes, and fun facts about Independence Day, visit usa.gov [Share your thoughts here] ]]> http://www.facebook.com/topic.php?uid=298591612622&topic=15219 Mon, 21 Jun 2010 07:00:00 GMT http://www.facebook.com/notes/us-embassy-new-zealand/soccer-world-cup-2010-online-resources/429006128853 Find our more about the 2010 Soccer World Cup from the US Mission in South Africa.

We believe that South Africa will host a dynamic sporting event and that the World Cup 2010 will be a great success. As South Africa's friend and partner on the continent and in global affairs, the United States Mission is proud to welcome and support its National Team in the games this year. [click for online resources] ]]> http://www.facebook.com/notes/us-embassy-new-zealand/soccer-world-cup-2010-online-resources/429006128853 Mon, 14 Jun 2010 07:00:00 GMT http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/06/good-people-doing-great-things-in-samoa/

One of the best parts of my job is meeting people who are doing wonderful things in their communities — frequently without pay, thanks, or acknowledgment. You don't often read about such folks in the newspaper, but they are making our world a better place.

It is particularly gratifying when we at the Embassy are able to assist these unsung angels with their work. Thus, it was my great pleasure while in Apia this past week to host a morning tea at which we gave grants to four non-government organizations (NGOs) to support important projects that they are pursuing. [read more] ]]> http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/06/good-people-doing-great-things-in-samoa/ Mon, 14 Jun 2010 07:00:00 GMT http://www.whitehouse.gov/blog/2010/06/09/toughest-sanctions-ever-faced-iranian-government
Today, the United Nations Security Council voted overwhelmingly to sanction Iran for its continued failure to live up to its obligations. This resolution will put in place the toughest sanctions ever faced by the Iranian government, and it sends an unmistakable message about the international community's commitment to stopping the spread of nuclear weapons.

For years, the Iranian government has failed to live up to its obligations under the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty. It has violated its commitments to the International Atomic Energy Agency. It has ignored U.N. Security Council resolutions. And while Iran's leaders hide behind outlandish rhetoric, their actions have been deeply troubling. Indeed, when I took office just over 16 months ago, Iranian intransigence was well-established. Iran had gone from zero centrifuges spinning to several thousand, and the international community was divided about how to move forward. [read more] ]]> http://www.whitehouse.gov/blog/2010/06/09/toughest-sanctions-ever-faced-iranian-government Thu, 10 Jun 2010 12:00:00 GMT http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/06/happy-world-oceans-day-and-world-environment-day/

...One laudable campaign that came to my attention recently is Mission Blue, an effort to rally public support to establish a global network of Marine Protected Areas. Marine Protected Areas would provide safe havens for ocean wildlife, maintain healthy biodiversity, support habitats that act as carbon sinks, and help marine environments recover and regenerate. There is no better argument in support of Mission Blue than what is happening in the Gulf of Mexico on this World Oceans Day. [read more] ]]> http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/06/happy-world-oceans-day-and-world-environment-day/ Wed, 09 Jun 2010 07:00:00 GMT http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/06/plastiki-ahoy/

I'm blogging today from atop a pile of junk floating in Apia harbor. Really.

Of course, the pile of junk has been painstakingly crafted into the form of a 60-foot catamaran named the Plastiki. Made of approximately 12,500 reclaimed plastic bottles, the boat is sailing from San Francisco to Sydney – over a route of more than 11,000 nautical miles – to focus attention on the huge amount of waste that we humans dump into the oceans. [read more] ]]> http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/06/plastiki-ahoy/ Thu, 03 Jun 2010 07:00:00 GMT http://www.facebook.com/notes/us-embassy-new-zealand/soccer-world-cup-2010/425327158853 Find our more about the 2010 Soccer World Cup from the US Mission in South Africa....

As we count down to the World Cup, the entire United States Diplomatic Mission to South Africa shares your excitement about what is to be a world-class sporting event showcasing the beauty of South Africa and her people. [read more] ]]> http://www.facebook.com/notes/us-embassy-new-zealand/soccer-world-cup-2010/425327158853 Thu, 03 Jun 2010 07:00:00 GMT http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/06/kiwibots-invade-dallas/

I very much enjoyed an evening last week with three dozen Kiwi secondary school students still flush with excitement from three days well spent in Dallas, TX, where they tore up the VEX Robotics Competition World Championship.

Each year VEX Robotics, Inc. of Texas runs a sort of high tech world cup for robots that students build and program themselves using VEX's design system. Supported in part by NASA, this year's championship event included approximately 400 teams – a total of 3,000 secondary and tertiary school students – from 14 countries around the world. The video below from last year's Championship will give you the general idea. (This year’s video isn't up yet.) [read more] ]]> http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/06/kiwibots-invade-dallas/ Mon, 01 Jun 2010 07:00:00 GMT http://www.flickr.com/photos/us_embassy_newzealand/collections/72157623905324473/

MEMORIAL DAY 2010 - A service at Old St Paul's, Wellington. MEMORIAL DAY 2010 - Memorial Day Flag Raising Ceremony Launches New Marines History Trust. [read more/view photos] ]]> http://www.flickr.com/photos/us_embassy_newzealand/collections/72157623905324473/ Mon, 01 Jun 2010 07:00:00 GMT http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/05/president-issues-new-national-security-strategy/

Today President Obama released the United States' new National Security Strategy (NSS), a document that outlines how the U.S. will work toward a more peaceful, prosperous, and secure world.

The Goldwater-Nichols Act of 1986 requires that the executive branch of our Government formulate and communicate clearly to the American people — and to the rest of the world — the national security objectives of the United States. Presidents have submitted an NSS to Congress every four years since then. [read more] ]]> http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/05/president-issues-new-national-security-strategy/ Fri, 28 May 2010 07:00:00 GMT http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/nss_may2010.html

The 2010 National Security Srategy[more] ]]> http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/nss_may2010.html Fri, 28 May 2010 07:00:00 GMT http://www.facebook.com/notes/us-embassy-new-zealand/conversation-on-national-security-strategy/422931838853

Secretary Clinton will discuss major points on the National Security Strategy at the Brookings Institute on Thursday May 27th (Washington DC time).

Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton will participate in a conversation with Brookings Institution President Strobe Talbott at Brookings on Thursday, May 27 at 1:30 p.m. (May 28, 5:30am NZ time) They will discuss the major points of the Obama Administration's National Security Strategy (NSS), including preventing nuclear proliferation, terrorism and al Qaeda, use of military force, development and diplomacy. Secretary Clinton will take questions from the audience. [more] ]]> http://www.facebook.com/notes/us-embassy-new-zealand/conversation-on-national-security-strategy/422931838853 Thu, 27 May 2010 07:00:00 GMT http://www.flickr.com/photos/us_embassy_newzealand/sets/72157624150653304/

The threat posed by biological weapons to state security in the twenty-first century is often under-appreciated by both scholars and practitioners alike, lost in their usual focus upon nuclear proliferation. But while such proliferation merits concern, the rapid pace of the biotechnical revolution and spread of related know-how and technology – coupled with the rise of terror groups (like Al Qaeda) whose focus is upon creating mass casualty attacks – makes biological warfare a far more dangerous and likely 'new face of terrorism' over the coming years. In Dr Preston's lecture, the growing bio-terrorism threat is explored and the implications of recent advances in biotechnology discussed that could make bioweapons the 'WMD of choice' for future terrorists. Along with exploring how these weapons could potentially be used and their possible societal consequences, Dr. Preston also discussed some available strategies for reducing our vulnerabilities to such attacks and limiting the damage they will inflict. [read more/view photos/video] ]]> http://www.flickr.com/photos/us_embassy_newzealand/sets/72157624150653304/ Thu, 27 May 2010 10:00:00 GMT http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/nss_may2010.html

Follow the link for the latest information on the National Security Strategy. [more] ]]> http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/nss_may2010.html Thu, 27 May 2010 10:00:00 GMT http://www.america.gov/st/business-english/2010/May/20100520120248jaonirdnalam0.5383264.html I would like to offer a big thank you to HarperCollins, Penguin, and Air New Zealand for helping the Embassy with literacy projects in Samoa.

Our Embassy Apia team has built in the Nelson Public Library on Upolu what is called an American Corner – a room with computers, internet access, American literature, other books, and inviting furniture. The goal is to create and maintain a place where patrons, particularly youth and children, can read comfortably and do research. Such American Corners are particularly beneficial in places where access to books and the internet is not otherwise widely available.

So that we could provide a more extensive and diverse array of materials than the Embassy could swing itself, we asked a few U.S.-based publishers to pitch in. Penguin and HarperCollins both responded immediately and enthusiastically, and they have sent us gratis a total of more than 600 books for children and youth.

With similar generosity, Air New Zealand offered to transport the books from Wellington to Apia at no charge.

These three companies are stand-up corporate citizens. As you patronize them or bump into their employees in your travels, please thank them for their support. And of course, if you happen to work at a publisher yourself and have books to contribute, please shoot me a message.

I have a particularly warm spot in my heart for public libraries – and for folks who support them – because one of the things that gave me the most pleasure as a child was the public library in the small coal mining town I grew up in. [read more] ]]> http://www.america.gov/st/business-english/2010/May/20100520120248jaonirdnalam0.5383264.html Mon, 24 May 2010 10:00:00 GMT http://www.facebook.com/newzealand.usembassy?v=app_2344061033 The Kapiti U.S. Marines Trust in association with the United States Embassy invite you to commemorate MEMORIAL DAY with a flag raising ceremony in Q.E.II Park Paekakariki.

Time: 9:30am - 10:00am
Date: Monday 31 May 2010
Venue: Old St. Paul's - Murphy St, Thorndon Wellington.

Memorial Day in the United States is similar to New Zealand's ANZAC Day. Always held on the last Monday in May the day is set aside to commemorate all US service personnel who have died in the service of their country in time of war. During World War II, two large training camps for US Marines were situated on what is now Queen Elizabeth Park and Whareroa Farm. Memorial Day is a suitable day to recall this unique chapter of Kapiti Coast history. U.S. Marines from the American embassy will raise the U.S. flag to half staff and a dedication will be given by Kapiti Coast District Council Mayor Jenny Rowan. All are welcome.

View Event Flyer: Event Flyer


Each year on the last Monday in May the United States of America honours all American service personnel who have died in time of war. The New Zealand American Association invites you, your family and friends to a service in honour of American Memorial Day.

Time: 12:15 - 12:45pm
Date: Monday 31 May 2010
Venue: Q.E. II Park. Paekakariki State Highway 1. At the U.S Marines Memorial site approx 0.5 kilometers inside the park.

The service will conclude by 12.45pm. You are invited to stay on for refreshments.
Dress: Uniforms, full medals and civilian equivalent; business suits, national costume as personally preferred.
View Event Flyer: Event Flyer ]]> http://www.facebook.com/newzealand.usembassy?v=app_2344061033 Fri, 21 May 2010 10:00:00 GMT http://www.america.gov/st/business-english/2010/May/20100520120248jaonirdnalam0.5383264.html

Washington — "Working together, China and the United States can lead a second industrial revolution, where cleaner and more efficient technologies power the world's factories, cars and homes," U.S. Commerce Secretary Gary Locke told a Shanghai audience in advance of Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton's May 22–25 visit to China. ]]> http://www.america.gov/st/business-english/2010/May/20100520120248jaonirdnalam0.5383264.html Fri, 21 May 2010 10:00:00 GMT http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/05/judge-peggy-talks-drugs/

We were delighted this week to welcome to Wellington Judge Peggy Hora from my home state of California. Judge Hora is a trailblazer who has been instrumental in building the "problem-solving courts" movement. She is a world-recognized expert in the intelligent sentencing and rehabilitation of drug-related offenders, and she has a lot to say that is worth hearing.. ]]> http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/05/judge-peggy-talks-drugs/ Thu, 20 May 2010 10:00:00 GMT http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uzK7NckCQgE

Monday 10 May 2010 Ambassador Huebner was welcomed to Aotea College with a powhiri and was entertained by their kapa haka group, the Academy Performing Arts class and The Fource Sweet Adelines ( Barbershop) Quartet. After being entertained by the Academy class, Ambassador Huebner talked with the group about his own experience as a music student and how beneficial it is to follow this stream if you have talent and enjoy it. He also visited a science class before leading a discussion with senior students about the US Electoral College and how the US elects a President. The ensuing question and answer session covered topics such as diversity and what we can learn from each others cultures, and the Ambassadors impressions of New Zealand. The Ambassador enjoyed his visit very much and asked for an invitation to Aotea colleges musical production which he would like to attend. ]]> http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uzK7NckCQgE Mon, 17 May 2010 10:00:00 GMT http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/obama_afghan.html

Washington — President Obama expressed support for the Afghan government's planned consultative peace jirga aimed at discussing how to reconcile Taliban fighters with the rest of the country, describing the national council as "an important milestone that America supports." ]]> http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/obama_afghan.html Wed, 12 May 2010 10:00:00 GMT http://www.facebook.com/notes/us-embassy-new-zealand/afghan-president-karzai-visit-to-the-united-states/417757958853 U.S. President Barack Obama and Afghan President Hamid Karzai, accompanied by senior-level delegations, convened wide-ranging discussions on May 11-12, 2010, aimed at deepening cooperation on the shared and mutual priorities of the United States and Afghanistan. These discussions on governance, security, economic and social development, and regional issues built on past sessions of the United States – Afghanistan Strategic Dialogue. http://www.facebook.com/notes/us-embassy-new-zealand/afghan-president-karzai-visit-to-the-united-states/417757958853 Wed, 12 May 2010 10:00:00 GMT http://www.state.gov/secretary/rm/2010/05/141740.htm SECRETARY CLINTON: ...At the same time, we must recognize that the best efforts of all of our governments combined – and we have indeed nations that have just appointed their first ambassadors to Afghanistan in recent years, like New Zealand, Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Egypt – all of that is very good news... http://www.state.gov/secretary/rm/2010/05/141740.htm Wed, 12 May 2010 10:00:00 GMT http://www.state.gov/secretary/rm/2010/05/141714.htm

SECRETARY CLINTON: Well, on behalf of President Obama, his Administration and the American people, I offer a very warm welcome to President Karzai and the members of the Afghan Government gathered here in the Benjamin Franklin Room of the State Department. ]]> http://www.state.gov/secretary/rm/2010/05/141714.htm Wed, 12 May 2010 10:00:00 GMT http://www.whitehouse.gov/deepwater-bp-oil-spill "We're going to do everything in our power to protect our natural resources, compensate those who have been harmed, rebuild what has been damaged, and help this region persevere like it has done so many times before." -- President Barack Obama, Venice, Louisiana http://www.whitehouse.gov/deepwater-bp-oil-spill Wed, 12 May 2010 10:00:00 GMT http://www.america.gov/multimedia/photogallery.html#/30145/nasa_satellites/ NASA does more than explore space. The agency uses its spacecraft and satellites to understand how the Earth works. NASA's Earth Observing System satellites help scientists study the planet's air, land, water, snow and ice. They help scientists monitor impacts of and predict future climate change. NASA works with partners from government, industry, universities and international space agencies on these missions. ]]> http://www.america.gov/multimedia/photogallery.html#/30145/nasa_satellites/ Wed, 12 May 2010 10:00:00 GMT http://www.america.gov/st/peacesec-english/2010/May/20100507170744esnamfuak0.5624353.html Washington — Afghan President Hamid Karzai leads a delegation of senior Afghan officials to the United States May 10–13 for what Obama administration officials describe as an opportunity to evaluate the broad strategic partnership between the two countries as they focus on shared security, governance and development goals. http://www.america.gov/st/peacesec-english/2010/May/20100507170744esnamfuak0.5624353.html Tue, 11 May 2010 10:00:00 GMT http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/05/rotary-o-zone-kids-at-work/ The past couple of weeks have been quite busy, with a good number of interesting and fun events of note. Before my schedule propels me too far beyond them, I wanted to briefly mention three particular highlights.

I had the great pleasure of leading a discussion on cultural adaptation at the incoming Rotary Ambassadorial Scholars orientation at the Old Government Building in Wellington. We have, I believe, sixteen Rotary Scholars here in New Zealand this year – from the United States, South Africa, Germany, Japan, and New Zealand itself. One of them, Phoenix Mourning-Star from Colorado State University, is interning with the Embassy to augment his course of study. If Phoenix is representative, then this year's crop is as exceptional as always... [read more] ]]> http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/05/rotary-o-zone-kids-at-work/ Mon, 10 May 2010 13:00:00 GMT http://www.flickr.com/photos/us_embassy_newzealand/sets/72157623905307861/

Monday 10 May 2010 Ambassador Huebner was welcomed to Aotea College with a powhiri and was entertained by their kapa haka group, the Academy Performing Arts class and 'The Fource' Sweet Adelines ( Barbershop) Quartet. After being entertained by the Academy class, Ambassador Huebner talked with the group about his own experience as a music student and how beneficial it is to follow this stream if you have talent and enjoy it. He also visited a science class before leading a discussion with senior students about the US Electoral College and how the US elects a President. The ensuing question and answer session covered topics such as diversity and 'what we can learn from each other's cultures', and the Ambassador's impressions of New Zealand. The Ambassador enjoyed his visit very much and asked for an invitation to Aotea college’s musical production which he would like to attend. [view photos] ]]> http://www.flickr.com/photos/us_embassy_newzealand/sets/72157623905307861/ Mon, 10 May 2010 13:00:00 GMT http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/05/happy-earth-day/ I have found it difficult to celebrate Earth Day this year, which is why this post is more than two weeks late. The original Earth Day was conceived as an 'environmental teach-in' forty years ago, but we don't seem to have learned the obvious lessons. We humans talk a good game, but then things get complicated... http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/05/happy-earth-day/ Sun, 09 May 2010 13:00:00 GMT http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/05/happy-press-freedom-day/ I had the great pleasure yesterday of attending a debate at the Backbencher Pub in honor of World Press Freedom Day. The proposition posed was that "politicians pay the price of a free press." http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/05/happy-press-freedom-day/ Wed, 05 May 2010 13:00:00 GMT http://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/statement-president-barack-obama-nuclear-non-proliferation-treaty-review-conference May 03 - Forty years after the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty entered into force, we have come together to answer a simple question with consequences for us all... http://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/statement-president-barack-obama-nuclear-non-proliferation-treaty-review-conference Wed, 05 May 2010 13:00:00 GMT http://www.flickr.com/photos/us_embassy_newzealand/sets/72157623827841047/ The U.S. Embassy belatedly celebrated Earth Day with Room 8 at Thorndon School on 28 April, 2010. Earth Day is in its 40th year and is marked on 22 April each year. It began in 1970 as a day to generate awareness and action for the environment and today remains an important day in the American calendar. We (4 staff from the U.S. Embassy) spent 90 minutes with Room 8 talking about the small things we can do for the environment, about the wonderful efforts of Room 8 to recycle, compost and be environmentally friendly. We got up close and personal with a solar oven which has cooked rice, pumpkin and other delicious things - truly impressive. Other highlights included planting herbs (coriander, rosemary, oregano) and broccoli in the class garden, and a close encounter with millions of worms. The students each recited their pledges to the environment - everything from looking after the class garden, to picking up litter. We're really impressed with Room 8 and would like to thank them for having us to visit. We had a ball.[view photos] [watch video] ]]> http://www.flickr.com/photos/us_embassy_newzealand/sets/72157623827841047/ Wed, 28 Apr 2010 13:00:00 GMT http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/anzacday2010.html The American people join with Australians and New Zealanders around the world to commemorate April 25, ANZAC Day. We pay tribute to the brave men and women of Australia and New Zealand who have served and sacrificed for their countries and the values we share as free peoples. We salute the ANZAC spirit, recognizing the two countries that fought together 95 years ago at Gallipoli and remain united today by bonds of honor and fidelity. On ANZAC Day, we reaffirm our solemn debt of gratitude to all those who serve their countries, the veterans, the fallen, and their families in the name of peace and freedom. As the Ode of Remembrance says, "At the going down of the sun, and in the morning, we will remember them." http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/anzacday2010.html Sun, 25 Apr 2010 13:00:00 GMT http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/04/we-hold-these-truths-to-be-self-evident/ that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.

To me, that is one of the most powerful and beautiful sentences ever penned in human language. Today was a particularly good day because I got to spend 90 minutes talking about those 35 perfectly arranged words with a group of smart, engaged students at Tawa College who were just finishing their study of the American Revolution and preparing to start on the French Revolution. ]]> http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/04/we-hold-these-truths-to-be-self-evident/ Sun, 25 Apr 2010 13:00:00 GMT http://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=409986328853 Through this Summit, the United States seeks both to join existing efforts and inspire new efforts to promote entrepreneurship and innovation. Participants have been invited from around the world to represent their home countries, regions, sectors, and communities at the Summit. They include successful entrepreneurs, investors, academics, and leaders of entrepreneurship networks, non-profits, foundations, and businesses who are invested in promoting business or social entrepreneurship in Muslim communities around the world. [read more] ]]> http://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=409986328853 Tue, 20 Apr 2010 13:00:00 GMT http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/04/my-first-trip-to-the-mainland-contd/ … to Dunedin. I started my visit with lunch with Mayor Peter Chin and several City Councillors. As always happens, we found a variety of unexpected topics of mutual interest. For example, I enjoyed comparing notes about Las Vegas with one of the Councillors who has a family member living in Nevada. (I am a partisan of Las Vegas, in part because of my inexplicable attraction to neon, and in part because of a couple of glorious New Year’s Eves that I spent there with my partner, my family from back East, and our great friends Kevin and Vana.) http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/04/my-first-trip-to-the-mainland-contd/ Tue, 20 Apr 2010 13:00:00 GMT http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/04/my-first-trip-to-the-mainland/ I recently took my first trip to the South Island. Unfortunately, I could only get away from Wellington for six days because of the press of other business, but that was thankfully just enough time to get a proper, partial introduction to Te Wai Pounamu. The trip started off brilliantly with an evening at the Christchurch Symphony as the guest of Lady Adrienne Stewart, a vivacious force of nature with a passion for the arts. On the program were a couple of my favorite pieces... http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/04/my-first-trip-to-the-mainland/ Tue, 20 Apr 2010 13:00:00 GMT http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/04/a-busy-week-in-washington-goes-well/ I've been hearing a lot of inside chatter all week from Washington about Prime Minister John Key’s visit and his participation in the Nuclear Security Summit. The visit really started on a high note when the PM met with Vice President Joe Biden. I know from direct experience that both men are smart, direct, and down-to-earth. I am told by staff friends that they took an instant like to each other and had a great meeting. http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/04/a-busy-week-in-washington-goes-well/ Tue, 20 Apr 2010 13:00:00 GMT http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/04/kia-ora-kira/ I am pleased to welcome to Wellington this week Kira Alvarez, Deputy Assistant United States Trade Representative for IP Enforcement. Kira is in town because she also serves as the chief U.S. negotiator for the Anti-Counterfeiting Trade Agreement (ACTA). Delegations from several countries are here participating in the 9th round of negotiations on ACTA. http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/04/kia-ora-kira/ Tue, 20 Apr 2010 13:00:00 GMT http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/04/faafetai-tele-lava-riley-elementary/ I always love seeing people doing nice things for other people. I also like seeing kids setting a good example for adults to emulate. For the past five months, the students at Riley Elementary School in San Bernardino, California collected pennies to help the students of Satitoa Primary School in Samoa. Located on the eastern shore of the island of Upolu, Satitoa was hit hard in last year's tsunami, with the school and 80 percent of its other structures destroyed. The students have been attending classes in a house and 3 other fales in the village. The students lost not only their school and their belongings but, most tragically, several family members. http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2010/04/faafetai-tele-lava-riley-elementary/ Tue, 20 Apr 2010 13:00:00 GMT http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/vp_biden_pm_john_key.html Earlier today, the Vice President met with New Zealand Prime Minister John Key who is in Washington to participate in the President's Nuclear Security Summit (NSS). New Zealand is an important partner in Afghanistan, on global issues ranging from nuclear non-proliferation to climate change, and on trade as a negotiating partner in the Trans-Pacific Economic Partnership (TPP) Free Trade Agreement. The Vice President thanked Prime Minister Key for his close cooperation on the NSS agenda and goals, and expressed his appreciation for New Zealand's strong support in Afghanistan. The Vice President and Prime Minister Key also discussed how our two countries can cooperate further on regional and global matters and work closely together at the United Nations, including on issues such as Iran. http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/vp_biden_pm_john_key.html Mon, 12 Apr 2010 13:00:00 GMT http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/global_research_alliance.html The U.S. Government announced today that it will support the participation of developing countries in the Global Research Alliance through ten new Global Research Alliance (GRA) Fellowships.[read more] ]]> http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/global_research_alliance.html Wed, 07 Apr 2010 13:00:00 GMT http://www.flickr.com/photos/us_embassy_newzealand/sets/72157623792517754/ At the end of March Ambassador Huebner visited to Christchurch and Dunedin. The photo at left: Ambassador Huebner next to an LC-130 Hercules aircraft in Christchurch. This ski equipped aircraft is used to fly to Antarctic bases including our base at the South Pole. For larger photos follow the link.[view photos] ]]> http://www.flickr.com/photos/us_embassy_newzealand/sets/72157623792517754/ Wed, 07 Apr 2010 13:00:00 GMT http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/human_rights_report_2009.html [read and provide feedback] ]]> http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/ Mon, 22 Mar 2010 13:00:00 GMT http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/communities.html FlickR - for photos, Twitter - for the latest news, Youtube and Vimeo - for our latest videos.

]]> http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/communities.html Thu, 04 Mar 2010 13:30:00 GMT http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/human_rights_report_2009.html March 11 - 2009 Human Rights Report: New Zealand.
New Zealand is a parliamentary democracy with a population of 4.33 million. Citizens choose their representatives in free and fair multiparty elections, most recently held in November 2008. The National Party won 58 parliamentary seats and formed a minority coalition government; John Key became the new prime minister. Civilian authorities generally maintained effective control of the security forces.

The government generally respected the human rights of its citizens, and the law and judiciary provide effective means of addressing individual instances of abuse; however, indigenous people disproportionately experienced societal problems. .[read more] ]]> http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/human_rights_report_2009.html Thu, 11 Mar 2010 13:00:00 GMT http://www.america.gov/st/peacesec-english/2010/March/20100304131800dmslahrellek0.2256433.html?CP.rss=true March 4 - Strong U.S. Engagement with Asia-Pacific Region Is Vital.
Washington — Free trade and strong economic engagement remain critical pillars for U.S. relations in East Asia and the Pacific, Assistant Secretary of State Kurt Campbell says.[read more] ]]> http://www.america.gov/st/peacesec-english/2010/March/20100304131800dmslahrellek0.2256433.html?CP.rss=true Thu, 04 Mar 2010 13:00:00 GMT http://www.flickr.com/photos/us_embassy_newzealand/4396659996/in/set-72157623529252786/ February 27 - APOLLO 13: Mission Control Reception.
NZ International Festival of the Arts opening night of APOLLO 13:Mission Control on 27 February 2010 at Downstage Theatre.[view photos] ]]> http://www.flickr.com/photos/us_embassy_newzealand/4396659996/in/set-72157623529252786/ Sun, 28 Feb 2010 13:00:00 GMT http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/tradeshow_2010.html February 22-23 - The Discover America Trade Seminar.
The Discover America Trade Seminar is an annual event the New Zealand Visit USA Committee hosts for New Zealand's travel industry. It is the largest and most important U.S. travel showcase in New Zealand. Approximately 146,000 New Zealanders visit the United States annually. [read more] [view photos] ]]> http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/tradeshow_2010.html Tue, 23 Feb 2010 13:00:00 GMT http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/students_feb_2010.html February 17-19 - Students discuss U.S./New Zealand relations.
Deputy Assistant Secretary (DAS) Frankie Reed, Bureau of East Asian and Pacific Affairs at the U.S. Department of State, visited Wellington February 17-19. During her visit, Ambassador David Huebner hosted her and a group of local university students to a lively discussion on U.S./New Zealand relations. Australia, New Zealand, and Pacific Island Affairs (EAP/ANP) Director Alcy Frelick also took part in the event. [view photos] ]]> http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/students_feb_2010.html Mon, 22 Feb 2010 13:00:00 GMT http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/perfect_vision.html February 16 - PerfectVision/TUANZ After 5 event.
The U.S. Commercial Service in Wellington, New Zealand and the Telecommunications Users Association of New Zealand (TUANZ) worked together to support PerfectVision, an Arkansas-based, New-To-Market company specializing in satellite TV and communications equipment/components.

PerfectVision, completed product launches at TUANZ After 5 events in Christchurch, Wellington, and Auckland. As well, PerfectVision representatives completed an appointment schedule in Auckland under the Commercial Service's Gold Key Service.

Pictured in Wellington at the PerfectVision/TUANZ After 5 event on February 16th is (from left-right) Ambassador David Huebner, PerfectVision representatives Christine Moschitta and Eddy Duke, and Ernie Newman, TUANZ CEO. [larger photo] ]]> http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/perfect_vision.html Tue, 16 Feb 2010 13:00:00 GMT http://www.flickr.com/photos/us_embassy_newzealand/4360328755/ February 13 - Ambassador Huebner attended the American Ambassador's Cup Rugby tournament.
Ambassador Huebner attended the American Ambassador's Cup Rugby tournament on February 13, 2010. The trophy, the American Ambassador's Cup, was first presented by Ambassador John F. Henning in 1967 and has been played every year since, in a 7-a-side tournament between Wellington's rugby clubs. It is Wellington's premium Club Rugby Sevens tournament. The finalists were Northern United and Oriental-Rongotai. Oriental-Rongotai were the defending champs, but Northern United won the 2010 tournament 28-19. [view photos] ]]> http://www.flickr.com/photos/us_embassy_newzealand/4360328755/ Mon, 15 Feb 2010 13:00:00 GMT http://www.flickr.com/photos/us_embassy_newzealand/4360461304/in/set-72157623441887712/ Mid-February - Ambassador Huebner's visit to Auckland and Rodney District.
Ambassador Huebner was in Auckland and Rodney District in mid-February. Among other engagements, he visited the University of Auckland, where he had a tour of some of the top research centres, he spoke with school students at Warkworth's Mahurangi College, and met with US and New Zealand military veterans. [view photos] ]]> http://www.flickr.com/photos/us_embassy_newzealand/4360461304/in/set-72157623441887712/ Mon, 15 Feb 2010 13:00:00 GMT http://www.flickr.com/photos/us_embassy_newzealand/4345099038/in/set-72157623394169376/ February 4 - Ambassador Huebner with the USA Rugby Sevens Team - Wellington, New Zealand.
Ambassador Huebner met the United States Rugby Sevens team a few days before the February 5-6 IRB Rugby Sevens event, which was held in Wellington, New Zealand. United States finished the tournament well, by winning the Shield final 17-14 against Tonga. Fiji won the overall final and the Cup against Western Samoa: 19-14. [view photos] ]]> http://www.flickr.com/photos/us_embassy_newzealand/4345099038/in/set-72157623394169376/ Tue, 09 Feb 2010 13:00:00 GMT http://www.flickr.com/photos/us_embassy_newzealand/sets/72157623336420532/ The redevelopments of Eden Park and the Auckland Art Gallery.
In late January, Ambassador Huebner visited two of Auckland's most high-profile construction projects: the redevelopments of Eden Park and the Auckland Art Gallery. [view photos] ]]> http://www.flickr.com/photos/us_embassy_newzealand/sets/72157623336420532/ Thu, 04 Feb 2010 13:00:00 GMT http://www.radionz.co.nz/audio/national/sat/2010/01/30/nina_federoff_genes_and_food January 30 - Nina Federoff: genes and food - Radio New Zealand Interview with Kim Hill
Molecular biologist who is Science and Technology Adviser to US Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton, and to the US Agency for Independent Development. (Audio MP3) [listen] ]]> http://www.radionz.co.nz/audio/national/sat/2010/01/30/nina_federoff_genes_and_food Thu, 04 Feb 2010 13:00:00 GMT http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/cambridge.html U.S. Consul General Randy Berry's Cambridge Visit
In mid January, U.S. Consul General in Auckland, Randy Berry, travelled to Cambridge, where he met local council officials and spoke with the Cambridge Men's Probus Club and the local media. [read more]]]> http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/cambridge.html Thu, 04 Feb 2010 13:00:00 GMT http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/wind_turbines.html Officials commission joint US-NZ Antarctic Wind Turbines
US Ambassador David Huebner and New Zealand Foreign Minister Murray McCully officially commissioned a joint effort to bring renewable energy to Antarctica. At a ceremony in Auckland on January 16, three wind turbines, which were completed last year and had been providing limited power to New Zealand's Scott Base and the American McMurdo Station, were put into full service. [read more]]]> http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/wind_turbines.html Thu, 04 Feb 2010 13:00:00 GMT