Donnelly, who also serves as the general secretary of the Oceania Karate Federation, has been the Deputy Ombudsman since 2004.

The Ombudsman office acts as an independent authority, which aims to help the community work with Government organisations.

They handle complaints from the public and have the task of undertaking investigations, as well as providing feedback and training to agencies.

“Mr Donnelly joined the Office of the Ombudsmen in 1985 as an investigating officer and has held various positions since then,” said Simon Bridges, Deputy Leader of the House.

“In his role as Deputy Ombudsman, Investigations and Inspections, Mr Donnelly has assisted the New Zealand Ombudsmen in carrying out their statutory investigation and review functions.

“I would like to recognise Mr Donnelly's substantial contribution to the Office of the Ombudsmen for more than 30 years.

“The Officers of Parliament Committee considered the Chief Ombudsman's proposal and unanimously supported the considered appointment of Mr Donnelly as a temporary Ombudsman.”

Donnelly will take up the post for an initial period of 12 months, after his appointment was approved, with his legal and policy making skills receiving praise.

He was been widely credited by the Oceania Karate Federation of helping to boost the sport throughout both the region, as well as numerous Commonwealth karate nations.

Donnelly has worked closely with Oceania Karate Federation President Michael Kassis to help grow karate in his role in the organisation.