Speech
Kaipara Kapers
I acknowledge Raewyn Johnston, Zone Manager for the Upper North Zone, Angela Anderson, Kaipara Kapers leader-in-charge, the Northland, North Shore, Auckland, Manukau and Hauraki Regional Coordinators of GirlGuiding New Zealand, GirlGuides and Rangers, Volunteer Leaders and each and every one of you here - tēnā koutou, tēnā koutou, tēnā koutou katoa, good evening.
Thank you for inviting me to the very first Upper North Zone GirlGuiding Camp, officially named Kaipara Kapers. I am the present Patron of GirlGuiding New Zealand - Nga Kohine Whakamahiri o Aotearoa – and it is always a joy for me to see and be involved in activities of GirlGuiding like visiting you here in Helensville.
You may already know that my husband, Anand, is the Governor-General of New Zealand. Yesterday we arrived back from a week in India where we attended a conference of the Indian diaspora from around the world, called the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas.
It is held in winter because it marks the arrival of Mahatma Gandhi from South Africa on 9th January 1915, and it was cold indeed. Indian people living abroad have excelled in such things as medicine, diplomacy and the creative arts. This year, fifteen received an award from the Indian Government. The chief guest and speaker at the Conference, my husband also received an award.
During the next few days, you will have many adventures here. You may choose to do some rock climbing, kayaking, river rafting, horse riding, swimming, archery - or you may take the opportunity to take part in a service project in the local community.
It is wonderful that the five Upper North Zone Regions of Northland have worked to put this event together. I congratulate those who were involved during the more than two-years of planning and organising which will have demanded initiative and dedication. I wish also to commend everyone here for supporting this, the Kaipara Kapers Camp.
Each GirlGuide, Ranger, Leader and Organiser is part of an organisation that exists specifically for New Zealand’s girls and women. GirlGuiding New Zealand draws on the experience of more than 100 years in preparing girls to make the most of their lives. Each one of you is part of the on-going GirlGuiding story. Developing skills, knowledge, values and self confidence are essential tools for life and GirlGuiding provides structured development for girls and young women to discover and use their potential.
Over the coming days you will face new challenges and learn new things about yourself, about others and the world around you.
To the many leaders who have volunteered their time planning and overseeing activities and events for the duration of the Camp, I extend my personal thanks. Your input ensures that these GirlGuides receive guidance and one-on-one support.
Everyone here is very excited about the delights to come and so I am now pleased to declare the Kaipara Kapers Upper North Island GirlGuiding Zone Camp officially open for four days of fun and adventure.
No reira, tēnā koutou, tēnā koutou, kia ora, kia kaha, tēnā koutou katoa.
Please join me in enthusiastic applause to mark the beginning of the Kaipara Kapers Camp.