The United States has maintained a consular presence in New Zealand since 1838.

Born in England, Clendon was a ship owner and merchant who bought land and settled in the Bay of Islands, New Zealand.

In 1838 he was appointed by the federal government of the United States as consul for New Zealand.

On July 16, 2021 President Joe Biden nominated former Senator Tom Udall to serve as United States Ambassador to New Zealand and Samoa.

[2] He was confirmed by the Senate on October 26, 2021 and the start of his tenure began on December 2, 2021.