PHILIPPINE EMBASSY HISTORY AND MISSION

Diplomatic relations between the Philippines and New Zealand were established on 06 July 1966 on a non-resident basis. For a period of ten years, from 1966 to 1976, the Philippine Embassy in Canberra, Australia exercised diplomatic and consular jurisdiction over New Zealand.

The resident Philippine Embassy to New Zealand in Wellington (Wellington PE) was officially established on 09 October 1976. The following served as Philippine Ambassadors in Wellington:

• Pacifico G. Evangelista (1976-1986);
• Eduardo J. Montilla (1986-1990);
• Ernesto V. Llamas (1990-1993);
• Vesta R. Cuyugan (1993-1996);
• Alicia C. Ramos (1996-2002);
• Francisco F. Santos (2002-2003);
• Bienvenido V. Tejano (2005-2010);
• Virginia H. Benavidez (2011-2015);
• Jesus S. Domingo (2016-2022).

The current Head of Post, Kira Christianne D. Azucena, assumed office in June 2023.

The Philippine Ambassador to New Zealand has concurrent jurisdiction over the Cook Islands and Niue, and oversight jurisdiction over Tokelau.

Wellington PE is assisted in its work by Honorary Consulates in Auckland and Christchurch in New Zealand.

As the Philippine Government’s principal representative in New Zealand, the Cook Islands, Niue and Tokelau, Wellington PE continues to promote and uphold the interests of the Philippines and the Filipino people in these countries and territories. Wellington PE’s continuing mission is to:

• Promote and enhance diplomatic relations with the countries and territories under the Embassy’s jurisdiction through the following:
1. Pursue political, defense, security and maritime cooperation
2. Boost trade, tourism and investments, and promote economic cooperation
3. Promote Philippine Culture and People-to-People exchanges


• Protect and promote the rights and welfare of Overseas Filipinos based in New Zealand, Cook Island, Niue and Tokelau; and
• Provide quality consular services to the Embassy’s various clients.