Chris Seed Appointed as New Ambassador to the U.S. in 2026

Former New Zealand diplomat Chris Seed has been appointed as the next ambassador to the United States, effective January 2026. The announcement was made by Winston Peters, the Foreign Minister, who confirmed that the current ambassador, Rosemary Banks, will return to New Zealand after her second term in Washington, D.C.

Chris Seed has an extensive background in diplomacy, having served as the Secretary of Foreign Affairs and Trade at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT) from 2019 to 2024. His career includes leadership roles at the New Zealand High Commission in both Canberra, Australia, and Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea. Most recently, he held the position of acting High Commissioner in London, following the decision to recall Phil Goff due to controversial remarks about former U.S. President Donald Trump.

Peters expressed confidence in Seed’s abilities, stating that his experience and diplomatic skills make him well-suited for the role. The Foreign Minister emphasized the importance of the U.S.-New Zealand relationship, particularly in light of current global challenges.

The transition comes as Rosemary Banks concludes her second term as ambassador, having previously served from 2018 to 2021 and again from 2022. Banks has played a crucial role in strengthening ties between New Zealand and the United States during her tenure.

As Seed prepares for his new role, he will take on the responsibilities of representing New Zealand’s interests in Washington, a position that holds significant diplomatic weight. His appointment reflects New Zealand’s ongoing commitment to engaging with its allies in an ever-changing international landscape.

The new ambassador’s experience in various diplomatic posts will be vital as he navigates the complexities of U.S. politics and foreign policy, particularly in areas such as trade, security, and climate change. The change in leadership at the embassy is expected to bring a fresh perspective to the bilateral relationship, focusing on mutual interests and collaboration.

With Seed set to start in January 2026, there is anticipation regarding how his leadership will shape New Zealand’s diplomatic approach in Washington. As the political climate continues to evolve, his role will be instrumental in reinforcing the longstanding partnership between New Zealand and the United States.