Barack Obama actually said...

"The United States and New Zealand share the goal of a stable and secure world."

"We celebrate our strong cultural and people-to-people ties."

"During the course of my Presidency and John's Prime Ministership, I think it's fair to say that the U.S.-New Zealand relationship has never been stronger."

"I am grateful for Carolyn's past service in various roles at the Social Security Administration, and I am confident that she will serve the American people well in her new role."