Fiji’s High Commissioner to New Zealand, Ratu Inoke Kubuabola, recently engaged in a meaningful meeting with representatives from Te Whānau o Waipareira in Auckland, emphasizing the enhancement of community well-being in both nations.
Te Whānau o Waipareira is a non-profit organization established in New Zealand in 1984, providing an extensive array of services such as health care, housing, social justice, and education to Māori and other ethnic communities.
During the discussion, Ratu Inoke commended Te Whānau o Waipareira for its impressive support and services offered to Māori communities in urban settings. He pointed out the organization’s ability to offer valuable insights that could be beneficial for Fijians.
“We would like to learn from your initiatives for the Māori and adapt similar approaches for our population in Fiji. Your efforts are advanced, and we invite you, Mr. Tamihere, to visit Fiji soon,” he remarked.
Ratu Inoke also underscored the government’s dedication to affirmative action for iTaukei people regarding business and education opportunities.
Chairman Raymond Hall and Chief Executive Officer John Tamihere appreciated the discussions and highlighted the historic connections between Fiji and New Zealand. Tamihere expressed enthusiasm for exploring direct economic and social exchanges to deepen the strong relationship between the two nations.
Accompanying Ratu Inoke were Second Secretary Josua Tuwere and Auckland Fijian community leaders Rachel Mario and Nik Naidu, who engaged actively in discussions aimed at promoting stronger collaboration.
These interactions by Fiji’s diplomatic missions abroad reflect Fiji’s Foreign Policy White Paper, which has recently received Cabinet approval.