Governor-General's 2010 New Year message

New Zealanders need to look to their future emerging leaders, says Governor-General, Hon Sir Anand Satyanand.

In his New Year message, Sir Anand noted the significance of 2010 to New Zealand.  "It marks the 170th anniversary of the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi, which established New Zealand as a modern nation, and the 65th anniversary of the end of the Second World War.  These are two very contrasting anniversaries-one that speaks of partnership and togetherness and the other of a conflict that claimed the lives of more than 50 million people including many New Zealanders.

"Ironically, the response of people after the War was not despair but a resounding vote of faith in the future.  People established families and built stronger communities.  As grandparents blessed twice in that regard last year, Susan and I are particularly conscious of the sense of optimism and hope that comes with the birth of a child.  While people born after the War continue to contribute as leaders, this 2010 anniversary year is a reminder that new leaders are constantly emerging and that we need to nurture them."

Sir Anand emphasised how New Zealand had responded to the global economic crisis in the last year, and the sense of optimism he and his wife Susan had noticed in meeting New Zealanders as they travelled.

"Undoubtedly individuals, families and communities have been hurt by the crisis, but New Zealanders' best qualities - ingenuity, tenacity and humour- have enabled them to rebound.  Community groups and volunteers have responded to those in need, while businesses continue to create and market innovative products and services.  New Zealanders have called on their tight connections to friends and family and proved that these are vitally important in times of adversity."

Sir Anand said New Year was not just a time to relax, but also to cement the bonds with loved ones and to invest time into relationships with young New Zealanders.

"It seems fitting to suggest, 170 years after the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi and 65 years after the end of the Second World War, that a challenge should go out to renew the spirit of partnership and hope that came out of both events.  Tomorrow's leaders need the skills, confidence and support to take on the mantle of community leadership.  We should all focus on identifying and encouraging these leaders whether they emerge in public positions, through voluntary service to others, in sport, education or business.  I believe this is a New Year resolution proposal that we can all build on."

Read the full message here

For more information: Antony Paltridge, Public Affairs Manager on 021 470 583