Hon Nanaia Mahuta
Minister of Customs
5 December 2007 Media Statement
Customs Minister pays tribute to former Comptroller John Belgrave
Customs Minister Nanaia Mahuta has paid tribute to Chief Ombudsman and former Comptroller of Customs, John Belgrave, who
passed away this week.
“John Belgrave was Comptroller of Customs from 1985 to 1987, and during this time, oversaw the introduction of the
Official Information Act into Customs, and introduced some important systems which have continued to be part of the
Customs process,” said Nanaia Mahuta.
“He made a valuable contribution to the New Zealand Customs Service.”
The 67-year-old Chief Ombudsman enjoyed a diverse public service career, and lead five government agencies at various
times of his career. He also served in diplomatic posts in London, Melbourne and Tokyo. He was honoured in the New Years
Honours 2007, becoming a Distinguished Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit.
“His achievements with Customs included the introduction of simpler systems, which helped both importers and exporters.
He also expressed a clear focus on greater reliance on intelligence work.
“He also facilitated the changes to the duty and excise system, and introduced an automated passenger processing system
which was more streamlined,” said Nanaia Mahuta.
“John Belgrave was an exceptional public servant of Aotearon/New Zealand, and his contribution to New Zealand Customs
Service will not be forgotten.
“As Minister of Customs, I would like to relay my sincere condolences to John’s family, and express the deep gratitude
for the experience and service he gave to New Zealand Customs Service during the term he served,” said Nanaia Mahuta
ENDS