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Ambassadors and High Commissioners present credentials from their Head of State to the New Zealand Governor-General at a formal ceremony at Government House. The ceremony is also an occasion to welcome the new Head of Mission to New Zealand and Government House at the start of their assignment, and has a distinctive New Zealand character that combines three elements: a traditional Maori challenge; a military guard of honour; and the presentation of credentials to the Governor-General. The Letter of Credence and Letter of Recall presented by the Ambassador/High Commissioner are addressed to the New Zealand Governor-General as follows:
For High Commissioners from countries of which Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II is also Head of State, the High Commissioner would present to the Prime Minister of New Zealand a Letter of Introduction from their own Prime Minister. At a later date Protocol Division will arrange for the High Commissioner and spouse to receive a formal welcome and meet the Governor-General at Government House at a time when other Heads of Mission are presenting their credentials.
