Why the French Embassy in New Zealand Matters
The French Embassy in Wellington is not just a building. It helps France connect with New Zealand, Samoa, and the Cook Islands. French people, New Zealanders, and people from the Pacific can use the embassy for many things. You can renew your passport, get help with visas, or learn about France. If you want to study in France or need urgent help, the embassy is the right place.
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Embassy Location
Embassy of France in New Zealand
Location: Level 8, 20 Ballance Street, Wellington
Mailing Address: P.O. Box 483, Wellington 6140
Phone: +64 4 384 2555
Consular Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:15 AM – 1:15 PM
General Enquiries: Monday to Thursday: 9 AM – 6 PM, Friday: 9 AM – 4 PM
Embassy Leadership And Staff
The ambassador is Her Excellency Laurence Beau. She started her job in October 2022.
The team includes:
- Deputy Head of Mission
- People for culture, science, and education
- Defence and Police staff (based in Canberra)
- Administrative and consular teams
Honorary Consular Agencies Across New Zealand
The embassy also works with local consulates in:
- Auckland – Aline Hauter
- Christchurch – Coralie de La Fage
- Queenstown, Dunedin, and Hawke’s Bay – local representatives
They help with simple questions and local support.
Consular Services for French Citizens
The embassy helps French people who live in or visit New Zealand, Samoa, or the Cook Islands. Services include:
- Passport and ID card renewals
- Registering births, marriages, and deaths
- Help with voting in French elections
- Legal documents and notarial services
- Emergency help if something goes wrong
ALSO Read: Ludovic Pommeret: France’s Ultra-Trail Legend With Global Victories
Visa Services: How to Apply
You must apply for a visa online using the France-Visas website. Visas are needed for:
- Short stays (90 days or less)
- Long stays (study, work, or family)
- Working Holiday Visas for New Zealanders (18–30 years old)
Important Notes:
- All visas are processed in Wellington
- It can take 3 weeks to a few months
- You must book an appointment early
Travel Advice & Emergency Preparedness
The embassy gives alerts about:
- Natural disasters like earthquakes or tsunamis
- Political issues
- Health and safety warnings
Education, Youth Mobility And Cultural Cooperation
The embassy supports students and cultural exchange. They promote:
- Studying in France
- Postgraduate studies at top schools in France
- University partnerships between France and New Zealand
- French language tests (DELF and DALF)
They also help with:
- Youth exchange programs
- Internships and cultural jobs
- Erasmus+ and research projects
Cultural Events & Soft Power Diplomacy
The embassy organizes many events like:
- French film festivals
- Francophonie day events
- Art shows and book talks
- Science meetings and talks between France and New Zealand
The Pacific Reach: Samoa & Cook Islands
The embassy also works in Samoa and the Cook Islands. It helps with:
- Diplomacy and partnerships
- Supporting French people living or traveling there
- Cultural and school activities
Conclusion
Strengthening the Franco–Kiwi Connection
The French Embassy in New Zealand helps many people. It connects France with New Zealand and the Pacific. It gives consular help, runs cultural events, and builds strong ties. It brings France closer to New Zealand, Samoa, and the Cook Islands.