New Zealand's High Commissioner to the Cook Islands, Brian Donnelly, has resigned after six months in the position, due to ill-health.
The former New Zealand First MP was appointed in February and retired from Parliament to take up the position.
Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters says Mr Donnelly feels his medical condition is preventing him from carrying out duties as High Commissioner to his fullest ability.
He says Mr Donnelly was an energetic and effective representative for New Zealand, and he has accepted his resignation with regret.
An acting High Commissioner will be appointed until a replacement is named.
Audrey Young has blogged on this resignation.
