New Zealand starts construction of new High Commission in Port Moresby, PNG

Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape joined New Zealand officials in Port Moresby yesterday to mark the start of construction of a new New Zealand High Commission building, signalling a renewed commitment to long-term diplomatic ties between PNG and New Zealand.

 New Zealand starts construction of new High Commission in Port Moresby, PNG/Photo PMs Media

The groundbreaking ceremony was held at the current High Commission site in Waigani and brought together New Zealand High Commissioner H.E. Peter Zwart, New Zealand Deputy Public Service Commissioner Tania Ott and representatives of contractor McConnell Dowell, alongside senior government officials.

The event incorporated cultural elements from both countries, underscoring the longstanding relationship and shared values between Papua New Guinea and New Zealand.

The project follows an announcement made in August 2025 by New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon confirming plans to construct a new chancery in Port Moresby as part of efforts to strengthen bilateral engagement in the Pacific.

High Commissioner Peter Zwart said the commencement of works demonstrated New Zealand’s ongoing commitment to its partnership with Papua New Guinea.

“We are delighted that work has commenced on the New Zealand High Commission’s new building,” he said. “This development reaffirms our long-term commitment to Papua New Guinea and the Pacific.”

He added that the design of the new facility would reflect the shared history and stories of both nations while providing dedicated meeting spaces to promote dialogue and cooperation, saying, “Last year we highlighted the breadth and depth of New Zealand’s 50 years of partnership with Papua New Guinea. Our work has now begun to lay the foundations for the next 50 years.”