Long-serving National Party MP John Carter will be New Zealand's next High Commissioner to the Cook Islands, Foreign Minister Murray McCully announced today.
Mr Carter, the Minister of Civil Defence, announced late last year that he would not be standing for re-election this year.
"I am confident that John Carter - who enjoys a long association with the Cook Islands - will take a strong leadership role in managing this relationship," Mr McCully said.
Mr Carter has been the MP for the Bay of Islands and subsequently the Northland electorate since 1987.
He will take up his appointment in August and if he resigns from Parliament there won't have to be a by-election because the general election will be held within six months, on November 26.
As well as civil defence, Mr Carter holds the portfolios of senior citizens, racing and associate minister for local government.
- NZPA
MP Carter to be High Commissioner to Cook Islands
John Carter has been an MP since 1987. Photo / Richard Robinson
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