Open Days

Government House Wellington will open its doors to the public again on the weekend of 17 and 18 March to mark the Diamond Jubilee of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, Queen of New Zealand.

On the back of an extremely popular Open Weekend in April last year, Government House Wellington will open its doors to the public for the second time, following the completion of its conservation last year.

The Open Days will feature entertainment on the North Lawn, and members of the public are welcome to picnic on the grounds.

“We are looking forward to welcoming New Zealanders back into Government House. This is the first time it has happened in our term and it will not be the last,” Governor-General, Lt Gen The Rt Hon Sir Jerry Mateparae said.

The Open Days (17 & 18 March, 10am-4pm - last entry to House) will give the public a rare insight into the House which plays an important part in the Governor-General’s constitutional, ceremonial and community leadership roles. It is a venue for many ceremonies, including investitures, State Welcomes and State Dinners for visiting Heads of State, credentials ceremonies for new ambassadors to New Zealand, and the swearing in of Cabinet Ministers.

Thousands of people visit Government House every year through events and ceremonies hosted by the Governor-General. Those events include functions to support community groups, particularly the many charitable organisations of which Sir Jerry Mateparae and Lady Janine are patrons.

Please note the following:

• First entry at 10am, last entry to the House at 4pm, on both 17 & 18 March
• Please enter on foot through the Basin Reserve entrance.  Government House is located at 1 Rugby St, Wellington.
• There is no parking on site but limited parking at Wellington College (gold coin donation).
• Consider using public transport.  Several bus routes pass the Basin Reserve, including the No 1, 3, 23, 43, 44
• Golf carts will be operating to assist people with mobility issues.
• No food or drink is allowed in Government House but you are welcome to have a picnic on the lawn. 
• Please note that for the health and safety of all visitors and to avoid congestion, baby buggies cannot be admitted to the House. 
• Security scanning will be operating.
• Government House and Grounds are a smokefree environment. 

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