Obama in New Zealand for meetings, golf, but no public talks
WELLINGTON, New Zealand — Former President Barack Obama arrived Wednesday for a three-day visit to New Zealand, where he’ll speak with community leaders, meet the prime minister and play golf.
The sessions will be closed to the public and media except for an official welcome ceremony Thursday. Obama does not plan to answer questions from reporters.
Former presidents often choose to keep a relatively low public profile to avoid undermining sitting presidents. Still, the lack of public engagement has frustrated some in New Zealand, who are eager to hear Obama’s thoughts on his time in the White House and the turbulent presidency of Donald Trump.
Obama said in a statement that he had long wanted to visit the South Pacific nation, given its close friendship with the U.S.