Ombudsman Taumoepeau retires after 9 years of service

The Chief Ombudsman for New Zealand and 2nd Vice President of the International Ombudsman Institute Peter Boshier is in Tonga to host a special event to farewell the outgoing Ombudsman, today.

Mr Boshier said, “The real purpose of my coming to Tonga is to farewell the Ombudsman ‘Aisea Taumoepeau and to recognise his outstanding service for the Tonga office of the Ombudsman and the wide Ombudsman community in the Pacific region.”

“We’ve been working together for the last nine years and I’ve worked alongside this man and understand his character and how much he’s respected internationally. Tonga can be very proud of your retiring Ombudsman.”

He noted that the relationship between New Zealand and Tonga’s Ombudsman offices has “continue to grow over the years particularly under the leadership of Ombudsman Taumoepeau.”

He also acknowledged Tongans courage and resilience after the HTHH volcanic eruption and tsunami last year and the cyclones that have impacted the country in the previous years.

This is Mr Boshier’s second visit to Tonga as the Chief Ombudsman of New Zealand. He is accompanied by two members of his International Development and Engagement Team; Mr Matt Lambie and Ms Renee Vaioleti.

Mr Boshier met with the Speaker of Parliament Lord Fakafanua and the Prime Minister Hon Hu’akavameiliku on Monday afternoon.

He also addressed the Legislative Assembly yesterday which he referred to as “one of the greatest moments” of his life.

- MEIDECC