Member of the Month January - Peter Kemp

This month we have the pleasure of talking with Peter Kemp, Deputy High Commissioner, New Zealand High Commission (Singapore).

Briefly what is your role? My role involves working to strengthen the New Zealand – Singapore relationship, including through implementation of the Enhanced Partnership which was signed by Prime Minister Ardern and Prime Minister Lee in May 2019. The Enhanced Partnership is a really wide-ranging agreement between our two countries that covers defence and security, trade, economic issues, science and innovation, and people-to-people links. I also oversee the High Commission’s consular services.

Any advice for doing business in Singapore and/or the region? Having just moved to Singapore, I am in listening and learning mode. Although I can’t give Singapore specific advice, my experience of working in the South Pacific over the last decade (including time spent living in Kiribati) has emphasised for me the importance of understanding local context and culture. 

When did you move to Singapore? Where from? I moved to Singapore from Wellington on 9 January 2020.

Where were you born? What country do you call home? I was born in Palmerston North New Zealand and grew up in Christchurch (so I consider myself to be from the mainland).

What do you like most about Singapore? I have been impressed so far with the greenness of the city, its excellent public transport network and of course the food. I suspect over the next couple of years I will need some more notches on my belt.

What do you do to relax? I like to spend time with my wife and two children, who are very enthusiastic about the swimming pool at our apartment! I also enjoy running in the botanical gardens, following by croissants and coffee at a local café to make sure I’m being balanced.

What's top of your bucket list? A long road trip through the United States with the family!

Why did you join the New Zealand Chamber (Singapore) and what do you like most about it? I joined the New Zealand Chamber because of the opportunity it provides to engage with New Zealanders doing business in Singapore – there are some really talented people out there.

Any last words? I’m always interested in meeting New Zealanders in Singapore so please come and catch up with me at the next event run by the Chamber.