January 7, 2017 2:00pm by David Farrar

Ambassador Gilbert departs

It was a long road to New Zealand for US Ambassador Mark Gilbert and wife Nancy. There was a two year wait for the former professional baseball player to be confirmed in the post thanks to a Senate filibuster.

But the road back to America is a quicker one. The shock US election, installing Donald Trump as President elect, ends Gilbert’s tenure here. He was a Barrack Obama appointee, a good personal friend as well as a key money man for the outgoing US President.

Gilbert flies back to the US early next year. Based on past experience, it could be a long wait for the next US Ambassador.

Had the pleasure of meeting Ambassador Gilbert several times. A charming and effective Ambassador who saw the end of the US Navy stand off during his time.

It will be interesting to see who Trump nominates to be Ambassador.