The Government of India has appointed IFS officer Ms. Muanpuii Saiawi as the next High Commissioner to New Zealand. Currently a Joint Secretary, she is expected to assume charge shortly, strengthening India’s diplomatic engagement with Wellington.
India Appoints New High Commissioner to New Zealand
New Delhi: The Government of India has announced the appointment of Muanpuii Saiawi as the next High Commissioner of India to New Zealand. The appointment was formally made public on January 19, 2026, marking an important diplomatic development in India’s engagement with the Pacific region.
Ms. Saiawi is an officer of the Indian Foreign Service (IFS), batch of 2005. Prior to her appointment, she served as Joint Secretary in the Ministry of External Affairs. Over the years, she has gained extensive experience in diplomacy, policy formulation, and international relations, making her well-suited for the high-profile diplomatic role in New Zealand.
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As High Commissioner, Ms. Saiawi will represent India’s interests in New Zealand and work to strengthen bilateral relations between the two countries. Her responsibilities will include promoting political cooperation, expanding trade and investment ties, encouraging cultural exchanges, and supporting the Indian diaspora in New Zealand.
Ms. Muanpuii Saiawi has been appointed as the next High Commissioner of India to New Zealand.#Newzealand #HighCommissioner #Maunpiisaiawi pic.twitter.com/mOCAoRhnu6
— Dynamite News (@DynamiteNews_) January 19, 2026
The High Commissioner also plays a key role in enhancing collaboration in areas such as education, climate action, innovation, and people-to-people connections.
According to the official announcement, Ms. Saiawi is expected to take up her new assignment shortly. Once she assumes charge, she will succeed the current High Commissioner and begin leading India’s diplomatic mission in Wellington. Her appointment reflects India’s continued focus on deepening relations with New Zealand and strengthening its diplomatic presence in the Indo-Pacific region.
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This appointment underlines the importance India places on its relationship with New Zealand, a key partner in the Pacific. With her experience and diplomatic background, Ms. Saiawi is expected to contribute meaningfully to advancing India-New Zealand cooperation across multiple sectors.
