Arts Minister Carmel Sepuloni and Associate Arts Minister Willow-Jean Prime both declined comment, referring the matter to Creative NZ.

Source: https://www.perthnow.com.au/entertainment/new-zealand-skipping-pavilion-at-2024-venice-biennale-c-11627971

Chris Hipkins was confirmed Sunday as New Zealand’s next prime minister and he chose Carmel Sepuloni as his deputy, marking the first time a person with Pacific Island heritage has risen to that rank.

Source: https://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/news/nation-world/story/2023-01-21/chris-hipkins-confirmed-as-new-zealand-leader-picks-deputy

"It is a great privilege and responsibility to lead a political party and our nation, and I wish him and his deputy Carmel Sepuloni all the best in their new roles.

Source: http://www.voxy.co.nz/politics/5/412071

Like Hipkins, Sepuloni first became a lawmaker 15 years ago and has most recently taken on the social development and employment portfolios as one of the government's top ministers.

Source: https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/politics/chris-hipkins-ap-new-zealand-jacinda-ardern-wellington-b2266820.html