High Commission of New Zealand, London facts for kids
Quick facts for kids High Commission of New Zealand in LondonTe Kāinga Māngai Kāwanatanga o Aotearoa i Rānana |
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| Location | St James's, London |
| Address | 80 Haymarket, London, SW1 |
| Coordinates | 51°30′28″N 0°07′54″W / 51.5077°N 0.1318°W |
| High Commissioner | Phil Goff |
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Listed Building – Grade II
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| Official name: New Zealand House | |
| Designated: | 24 November 1995 |
| Reference #: | 1242616 |
The High Commission of New Zealand is like New Zealand's official home in London, the capital city of the United Kingdom. Its Māori name is Te Kāinga Māngai Kāwanatanga o Aotearoa i Rānana. This important building is where New Zealand's government works to connect with the UK. It's a tall building called New Zealand House located on Haymarket. Inside, you'll find offices for the High Commissioner, who is New Zealand's top diplomat, and other important staff.
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Building History: New Zealand House
From Hotel to High Commission
Before New Zealand House was built, a famous place called the Carlton Hotel stood on this spot. Sadly, the hotel was destroyed during the Blitz, which was a time when bombs fell on London during World War II. After the war, the land was empty for a while.
A Modern Skyscraper Design
When it was time to build the new High Commission, New Zealand wanted something modern. They chose Sir Robert Matthew to design a tall, modern building. This was different from other countries' diplomatic buildings, which were often older or more traditional. The building is 18 stories high.
Opening by the Queen
Building such a tall, modern skyscraper in central London was a big project. It needed special permission from the British government. The building was finished by Holland, Hannen & Cubitts. In 1963, Queen Elizabeth II herself officially opened New Zealand House. It's still the only very tall building in this part of London. Since 1995, it has been recognized as a Grade II Listed Building, meaning it's an important historic building.
What the High Commission Does
Connecting New Zealand and the UK
The High Commission of New Zealand is an important office for the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade. Its main job is to help keep a strong relationship between New Zealand and the United Kingdom. This includes working on trade, culture, and other important matters.
Helping New Zealanders in the UK
The High Commission also helps New Zealand citizens who are living in or visiting the UK. For example, if you need a new New Zealand passport, you can apply for it at New Zealand House. The current High Commissioner, who leads the mission, is Phil Goff.
Cultural Connections
The building is also a place for cultural activities. The Māori cultural group called Ngāti Rānana often meets at the High Commission. This helps keep Māori culture alive and shared in London.
Getting There
If you ever visit New Zealand House, the closest Tube stations are Pic Piccadilly Circus and Charing Cross.
Gallery
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The High Commission entrance
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The High Commission tower
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The High Commission
