Career diplomat named as Nauru high commissioner

Career diplomat Nicci Simmonds has been named high commissioner to Nauru. ‘‘New Zealand and Nauru enjoy a good relationship and the high commissioner will play an important role in strengthening our engagement around mutual interests,’’ Foreign Minister Winston Peters said. New Zealand contributed about $2.3 million to Nauru each year, focusing on building greater self-reliance by improving education, protecting fisheries and increasing access to renewable energy.