GirlGuiding New Zealand visit

Tena koutou everyone. 

Thank you Ruth for inviting me to visit the National Office of GirlGuiding New Zealand and to join you for morning tea.  I would like to make a few brief remarks. 

Since my husband Anand was appointed Governor-General in August 2006, I have had the opportunity as your Patron to meet many people associated with GirlGuiding New Zealand.

I have attended the organisation's 2008 and 2009 annual general meetings in Auckland. 

I have also met Guides at ceremonies throughout New Zealand where I have awarded Queen's Guide Award and where Anand has awarded Duke of Edinburgh's Hillary Gold Awards.

I also had the pleasure of hosting a Guides Fun Day at Government House in Wellington in March 2008 to mark the centenary of the Guiding movement in New Zealand.  It was a special day, with Pippins, Brownies, Guides, Rangers and Leaders, all revelling in the fun.
 
However, I am equally conscious that ensuring these significant events are successful is a small hard working team of paid staff and an army of volunteers.  It is therefore a wonderful opportunity to meet many of the unsung workers of GirlGuiding New Zealand here at your National Office.  Your efforts help make this such a vital organisation in New Zealand and as Patron, I thank you for your hard work.

Earlier this year, Anand issued his second New Year message.  In that message, he urged New Zealanders to support our nation's new and emerging leaders.  He said:

"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."

GirlGuiding New Zealand is an organisation whose reason for being is to do just that.  GirlGuiding New Zealand enables girls and young women to develop their potential and make a difference in the world.  As your Patron, I deeply appreciate your work to make New Zealand a better place. Thank you.