Expulsion Was Unwarranted: McDonald

Expelled New Zealand High Commissioner to Fiji Caroline McDonald has spoken out for the first time since the development of the diplomatic row with Fiji, as she arrived at Auckland Airport yesterday afternoon.

But first, in a statement issued from the High Commissioner before she left the country, McDonald said despite the sadness she is feeling at this time, she knows that New Zealand remains a firm friend and supporter of Fiji and that her government will continue to work with the Pacific Forum and others in the international community, to support and encourage Fiji's return to democracy and a better future for its citizens.

She said New Zealanders and the people of Fiji have a great deal in common including family links that span both countries, an interest in good government and faith in the democratic process.

McDonald said however, many friends and colleagues here will know that during the last 11 months she has worked hard on the relationship between New Zealand and Fiji.

She said it has been a privilege to serve in Fiji.

Meanwhile, McDonald made a brief statement upon arrival at Auckland Airport and stated that her expulsion was arbitrary and unwarranted.

She told reporters that there is really no basis or justification for her expulsion and the interim government in Fiji has not been able to substantiate why it has taken this action.

McDonald refused to take any questions, however she is expected to give her story personally to Foreign Minister Murry McCully later this week.

McCully told Radio New Zealand that he would not meet McDonald today but within the next two days.

Along with McDonald, the NZ High Commissions Trade Minister Simon Mark, as well the Police and Defence Attache's left via an Air New Zealand flight out of Nadi yesterday morning.