Ambassador Joanna Kempkers took up her duties as Permanent Representative of New Zealand to the OECD on 10 February 2026.
Ms. Kempkers is an experienced diplomatic professional with a strong background in international relations and development, with over three decades of experience at the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade. She is currently serving as Ambassador of New Zealand to France, Monaco, and Portugal, and Permanent Representative to the OECD.
Prior to this appointment, Ms. Kempkers held senior leadership roles including Divisional Manager for South and South East Asia, Divisional Manager for Global Development and Scholarships, and Chief of Protocol. She has also represented New Zealand as High Commissioner to India, Nepal, and Bangladesh and to the Cook Islands.
Her diplomatic career spans postings in Paris, Suva, Rarotonga, and New Delhi, where she worked on trade negotiations, agriculture and environment policy, and regional co-operation.
Ms. Kempkers studied economics, statistics, and French at the University of Canterbury. She speaks French with professional proficiency.
Recognised for her strategic vision and commitment to fostering international partnerships, Ms. Kempkers continues to play a pivotal role in advancing New Zealand’s foreign policy objectives in Europe and beyond.