Distinguished Members of the Turkish Community,

Dear Friends in New Zealand,

I have officially assumed my duties as the Ambassador of the Republic of Türkiye to New Zealand, following the presentation of my credentials to the Right Honourable Dame Cindy Kiro, Governor-General of New Zealand on 16 July 2025.

It is both an honour and a privilege to represent Türkiye in New Zealand, especially as we prepare to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations in 2028.

I am particularly honoured to return to New Zealand in this new capacity, having previously served at our Embassy from 2010 to 2014.

Our two nations are bound by a unique and meaningful history, shaped by the shared legacy of Gallipoli. What began as a painful chapter of conflict has transformed into a lasting bond of mutual respect and friendship. The words of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of the Republic of Türkiye, remain a powerful symbol of this connection. His message continues to inspire how our peoples see each other - not as former adversaries, but as partners in remembrance and in hope.

As the Ambassador of Türkiye to New Zealand, I will work diligently to further strengthen the already excellent relations between our countries and to safeguard the rights and interests of the Turkish community here.

The doors of our Embassy will always be open to every member of the Turkish community, as well as to all those in New Zealand who have an interest in Türkiye.

On behalf of my colleagues at the Turkish Embassy and myself, I extend our warmest regards and best wishes to all visitors to our website.

Kind regards,

Melih Karalar