NZIIA Wellington Branch - New Zealand Institute of International Affairs

Great event last week with our distinguished panel on Russian disinformation campaigns on Ukraine and Poland. Look forward to seeing members and guests at the next event!

Happy Holidays from NZIIA Wellington Branch to all our members, partners, sponsors and speakers this year! We look forward to 2026 with another great portfolio of events fostering expert discussion and understanding in international affairs, particularly as they relate to Aotearoa New Zealand!

On Wednesday 10 December 5:30-7:30pm, the NZIIA Wellington Branch is hosting HE Alfredo Pérez Bravo for a special evening reflecting on his remarkable 50 year diplomatic career with the Mexican Foreign Service. Join us for an evening of rich stories, memorable photos (there will be lots more like the Nelson Mandela photo!), practical insights, and a thought-provoking conversation on diplomacy, leadership, the importance of family and Mexico’s place in an ever-changing world.

Beginning his career at just 18 years old, he rose rapidly through the ranks to become the youngest Ambassador in the modern history of the Mexican Foreign Service. His postings have ranged from Sweden during the Cold War, to Washington in the late 1980s, to historic roles as Itinerant Ambassador to 39 nations across Africa and the Middle East. He has served in high-impact positions in Asia, Europe, Russia, and the Caribbean, and today represents Mexico in New Zealand, Samoa, Tonga, and Tuvalu, while serving as Dean of the Diplomatic Corps in Wellington.

This event offers a unique opportunity to hear first-hand how diplomacy has transformed—from the era of telegraphs and long-distance cables to the age of social media and public engagement—and how Mexico has navigated these changes.

Register here: https://events.humanitix.com/reflections-of-50-years-in-the-mexican-foreign-service

Last Tuesday we had the pleasure of hearing from John Pearson (British HC UK in New Zealand) and Margaret Cooney (Octopus Energy NZ) discussing how the UK connects climate, growth and security.

The discussion provided a valuable insight into the both key critical challenges and opportunities in addressing climate change and also corporate perspectives from British clean energy tech company Octopus Energy in NZ.

NZIIA Wellington thanks both our speakers for their insights plus attendees for their valuable contributions to the Q&A!