Vice President-elect Kamala Harris will bring unique qualities to her leadership, according to Mahuta, the first woman representing foreign affairs in New Zealand. Mahuta expressed excitement about the potential for collaboration between their respective countries and hopes for shared interests. This enthusiasm reflects a global desire for a shift away from right-wing populism. New Zealand, with its recent election success led by Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, is seen as a promising alternative to the divisive politics seen in other countries like Brazil and Hungary. The country is now viewed as a beacon of hope for those seeking inclusive and competent government led by charismatic women. With a victory over COVID enhancing her reputation, Ardern and her team are now confronted with heightened expectations. After three years of leading a coalition government that did not achieve significant policy successes on major issues like inequality, Labour now has the votes to pass its agenda and boasts a diverse representation that progressives have long desired. The majority of Labour's newly elected members are women, including the first African-descended member, Ibrahim Omer, a former refugee from Eritrea. The 120-member Parliament also includes 11 LGBTQ lawmakers, a dozen individuals of Pacific island descent, and 16 Maori members. The current Parliament in New Zealand is the most diverse in the country's history, representing the demographics of New Zealand as well as its connections to the Pacific islands. According to Richard Shaw, a politics professor at Massey University in New Zealand, this diversity is a significant development. Prime Minister Ardern's recent executive council includes a mix of familiar supporters, with Grant Robertson, the finance minister, being appointed as the first openly gay lawmaker to serve as deputy prime minister. Additionally, Ardern has appointed several members of Maori and Pacific island descent to her council. Mahuta, age 50, was the biggest surprise at the United Nations General Assembly in Manhattan on September 27, 2018. New Zealand's new foreign minister Nanaia Mahuta is known as an honest broker and brings diversity to Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern's cabinet. Mahuta entered Parliament at 26 with a master's degree in social anthropology after working as a researcher for her Tainui tribe during a historic treaty settlement with the government. Her father was the lead negotiator and her aunt was the Maori queen, Te Arikinui Dame Te Atairangikaahu. New Zealand's Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern addressed the United Nations General Assembly in Manhattan on September 27, 2018. The country's new foreign minister, Nanaia Mahuta, is known for being an honest mediator and has joined Ardern's diverse cabinet. Rather than seeking attention, Mahuta focused on studying briefing papers, displaying a no-nonsense and measured approach. The word "honest" followed her as she transitioned through different positions. In her role as associate environment minister, she handled difficult negotiations concerning water rights between her tribe and the government. As local government minister, she was frequently called upon to resolve conflicts on matters such as doctor shortages and dog control. During her time as customs minister, she collaborated with exporters and played a key role in reaching agreements with Japan and other nations to simplify trade processes. In her new position, she is expected to focus on coordinating safe tourism during the COVID-19 pandemic in the region, as well as strengthening economic ties with other Pacific Island nations and Australia. David Cunliffe, a former Labour Party leader who has worked closely with Mahuta for almost twenty years, praised her appointment to foreign affairs as an inspired decision. He described her as someone who works towards progress without seeking personal fame and noted that her hard work has finally been acknowledged. In a recent interview, Mahuta revealed that she had not actively pursued the foreign affairs role, although it was a consideration. She expressed surprise at the offer but eagerly accepted the opportunity to enhance New Zealand's global standing and collaborate with Pacific Island nations. The region has garnered increased attention in recent years due to China's growing influence and investments. US officials believe that Mahuta and her team, including the Maori defence minister Peeni Henare, will be well-received in the region as cultural equals and a strong counterbalance to Beijing. Mahuta's promotion is also being praised in the Maori community, despite some backlash over her traditional facial tattoo. This event is seen as a significant moment in history and politics by many, not just a win for diversity. Mahuta, a prominent figure in the Maori King Movement, has been appointed to the New Zealand government's foreign ministry, which signifies the progress the country has made. However, appointments are just the beginning for any government. Like in the United States, Ardern's administration is facing significant domestic and international challenges, including climate change and economic struggles worsened by COVID-19. To address these issues, Oliver Hartwich of the New Zealand Institute suggests bold actions such as reforming education for equality and changing the tax system to encourage new housing construction. Cunliffe expressed that there is a lack of willingness to take necessary action and make significant changes in government. He emphasized the importance of following through on announcements and being transformative in order to overcome populism. Cunliffe and Mahuta both believe that addressing the root causes of issues is crucial in preventing them from resurfacing in the future. She expressed her desire for ideas on redefining the concept of prosperity to be adopted from the Indigenous community, which emphasizes values such as caring for people and protecting the environment. She acknowledged that addressing economic inequality is a major obstacle for numerous nations and called for a departure from traditional approaches.