Lady June Blundell

It was with great sadness that I learned of the passing of Lady June Blundell, one of the longest serving members of the Order of New Zealand.  Lady June died at Auckland Hospital on 31 October 2012.

Lady June was made a member of New Zealand highest honour on 6 February 1988, a year after the Order was established, in recognition of her outstanding service to New Zealanders and to the Crown.

The widow of Sir Denis Blundell, New Zealand’s first resident Governor-General, Lady June actively supported her husband throughout his time at Government House (1972-77).

Lady June dedicated her life to the service of others.  A softly spoken person who never sought the limelight, she worked quietly and tirelessly on behalf of many community organisations and charities.  

She was active in St John throughout her life, and had a devoted interest in St John Youth.    She was the founding Patron of the Child Cancer Foundation and contributed to the establishment of CanTeen in 1988.  She was also involved with the Homai College for the Blind, Save the Children New Zealand, and the Asthma Foundation.

On behalf of my wife Janine and my family, I extend my deepest sympathies to Lady June’s family at this sad time.

Lt Gen The Rt Hon Sir Jerry Mateparae
Governor-General of New Zealand