On a beautiful Saturday afternoon at Government House Auckland, Dame Cindy hosted a ceremony for graduates of New Zealand Olympic Committee Wāhine Toa Leadership Programme.
The programme was launched in 2017 to support women moving from competitive sports into leadership positions. Participants are wāhine who have participated in Olympic, Paralympic or Commonwealth Games and have a strong commitment to advocating for women and girls in sport. The programme aims to equip participants with leadership skills through a range of practical activities such as mentoring, residential workshops, and hearing from guest speakers.
As patron of the New Zealand Olympic Committee, Dame Cindy enjoyed meeting these inspirational wāhine and their families, and hearing about their leadership commitments and aspirations for the future.
On Thursday night at Government House Auckland, Their Excellencies hosted a very special dinner to mark the 50th anniversary of the World Wide Fund for Nature New Zealand (WWF-New Zealand).
WWF-New Zealand is a leading environmental NGO which seeks to support science-based, pragmatic solutions to ensure a sustainable future for New Zealanders and our whenua. The organisation collaborates across iwi, government, and industry to deliver practical environmental outcomes, and advocates for effective conservation policy.
This event was an opportunity to reflect on the indelible impact WWF has had on New Zealand’s environment over the past 50 years, and to acknowledge the contribution of key figures across that time.
Ko au ko te taiao, ko te taiao ko au. I am the environment and the environment is me.
The Governor-General, Her Excellency Rt Hon Dame Cindy Kiro, GNZM, QSO, travelled to Türkiye to represent the people of New Zealand at this year’s Anzac Day commemorations.
Upon her arrival in Istanbul, Dame Cindy was honoured to meet with Bartholomew I of Constantinople, Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople.
Her Excellency then travelled Ankara to meet His Excellency Mr Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, President of the Republic of Türkiye. Dame Cindy thanked His Excellency the President for Türkiye’s ongoing support and generous hospitality for the annual Anzac Day commemorations. Their bilateral meeting reaffirmed the strong bonds between our two nations and the shared commitment to enhance those ties.
While in Ankara, Her Excellency also met with His Excellency Mr Numan Kurtulmuş, Speaker of the Turkish Grand National Assembly.
Dame Cindy and Dr Davies then travelled to the Gallipoli Peninsula, where they had the honour of touring some of the significant battlefields and cemeteries. Their Excellencies were guided by Dr Andrew MacDonald, Official Historian of the Royal New Zealand Returned and Services' Association, paying their respects at Ari Burnu, Anzac Cove, Quinn’s Post, and Chunuk Bair.
In the company of the Gallipoli Historic Sites Directorate and the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, Her Excellency also planted a pōhutukawa tree – symbolising remembrance and the shared history of New Zealand and Türkiye.
On 24 April, Their Excellencies attended the Turkish International Service, the French National Service, and the Commonwealth and Ireland Service in Gallipoli.
The following day, Anzac Day, Dame Cindy attended the Anzac Day Dawn Service and the New Zealand National Service in Gallipoli. New Zealand and Australian Defence Force personnel conducted the moving services with utmost mana and solemnity, in honour of all those who have served both our countries with such courage, in the name of peace and freedom.
As Her Excellency remarked in her address for the National Service: 'On this day, we gather together, in bonds of friendship and remembrance, to honour those who served our countries so courageously – and those families who bore the immense burden of their loss. Such service and sacrifice continue to be felt, and remind us of the devastating, intergenerational consequences of war.'
'More than a century on from Gallipoli, the legacy of Anzac continues to evolve. That legacy challenges us to reflect not only on the sacrifice of those who served, but also on the responsibilities we carry in our own time: to be a nation that remembers, and that strives for understanding, compassion and peace.'
This morning, as dawn rose over Pukeahu National War Memorial Park in Wellington, the Rt Hon Dame Helen Winkelmann, Administrator of the Government, addressed those gathered at our national place of remembrance. Following the service, Dame Helen enjoyed the opportunity to meet with veterans and NZDF personnel.
Later this morning, Dame Helen attended the Anzac Day National Commemoration. Both of this year's Anzac Day services at Pukeahu carried special poignancy, with the bells of the Carillon ringing out across the park for the first time in six years.
Dame Helen reflected on the meaning of this sacred day in her address: 'On this Anzac Day, as we gather before the Tomb of the Unknown Warrior, we reflect on all those who have served across generations. May we honour their memory, uphold their legacy, and commit ourselves to the peace they have sought.'
The Governor-General, Rt Hon Dame Cindy Kiro, is currently in Gallipoli, where she will represent the people of New Zealand at this year's Anzac Day commemorations.
Matariki is a time to gather and remember those we have lost, show gratitude for the present, and look towards the future. To celebrate Matariki this year, Government House Wellington will be hosting a very special themed event on Thursday 9 July 2026. Members of the public are invited to register for the ballot to be in with a chance to attend.
Guests will be hosted by the Governor-General and experience the manaakitanga of the house, enjoy hāngī prepared on site, and special performances.
The event is free to attend, with numbers strictly limited. The ballot is open to guests 18 and older, unless accompanied by an adult.
The ballot opens today, and closes Friday 15 May at 4pm. Successful entrants will be notified via email during the week of Monday 18 May.
To conclude what has been a wonderful week of investitures in Auckland, seven more outstanding New Zealanders were recognised in this afternoon’s ceremony.
Mrs Fran Hartnett, Professor Patria Hume and Dr Arif Saeid each received their ONZM. Mrs Hartnett was honoured for her significant advocacy work for people with disabilities, and Professor Hume was recognised for her services to sports science and injury prevention.
Dr Arif Saeid has worked to create better outcomes for refugees and youth, and was honoured today alongside his wife, Dr Fahima Saeid, who received her MNZM for services to refugees.
Renowned Māori educator Mr Joe Harawira received his King’s Service Order at this morning’s investiture ceremony. Mr Harawira has been instrumental in developing bilingual and Kaupapa Māori education across the Waikato region, has been a head judge at Te Matatini, and serves as kaumātua for Government House.
Former All Black Mr Eroni Clarke was presented with his MNZM for services to rugby and the Pacific community, and Mr Waihoroi Hoterene received his ONZM in recognition of services to Māori and Māori language education.
Also recognised was Distinguished Professor Paul Moughan who received his CNZM for services to science.
At this afternoon’s investiture ceremony, seven more remarkable New Zealanders were honoured for their service across a range of fields.
Mr Tony Falkenstein received his CNZM for services to philanthropy and business education. Mr Falkenstein has been integral in funding and enabling international exchanges for business students at both the University of Auckland and Waikato University.
Also honoured was former White Ferns captain Ms Sophie Devine who received her ONZM for services to cricket. Ms Devine led the White Ferns to a bronze medal at the 2022 Commonwealth Games, to their maiden T20 World Cup title in 2024 and holds the record for the fastest ever 50 in Women’s T20 International cricket, from 18 balls.
Other recipients who were honoured for services to the community, business and women, journalism, cancer research, and the Punjabi community.
Professor Charl de Villiers received his CNZM this morning at Government House Auckland, for his considerable service to accountancy. Professor de Villiers has been instrumental in the development of sustainability reporting standards, guiding organisations and governments to adopt more rigorous reporting practices.
Ms Shirley Hooper and Mrs Lyn Lloyd each received their ONZM. Ms Hooper was recognised for her services to netball - where she has served in leadership positions both nationally and internationally – and artistic swimming. Mrs Lloyd was acknowledged for her significant contribution to the field of renal nutrition – a career which includes expertise in the nutrition management of kidney stones and the mentoring of numerous dietitians.
Four recipients received their King’s Service Medals for services to the community, rugby, the Indian community, and to Members of Parliament.
Six more inspiring New Zealanders received their Royal Honours insignia at an investiture ceremony this afternoon in Auckland.
Recipients included Dr Bruce Hayward who received his CNZM in recognition of his significant contribution to the field of micropaleontology. Professor Dr Jens Mueller received his ONZM for his extensive service to education.
Also acknowledged were recipients who have made remarkable contributions to the fields of business, humanitarian aid, sport, governance, orienteering, and the community.
Investiture ceremonies continued at Government House Auckland this morning, with eight recipients being presented with their Royal Honours insignia.
Mr Tony Quinn received his CNZM in recognition of his significant contribution to motorsport and Mrs Kerry Nickels received her KSO for her services to the Red Cross. Mr Jack Hobbs, who was the first person to undertake systematic breeding of New Zealand native plants and was the long-serving manager of the Auckland Botanic Gardens received his MNZM.
Other recipients were acknowledged for their outstanding contributions to corporate governance, Pacific art, heritage preservation and the community.
The Governor-General was honoured to officially welcome The Honorable Surangel Whipps Jr., President of the Republic of Palau, to Government House Auckland this morning – the first official visit by a Palauan President to Aotearoa New Zealand.
This very special occasion provided an opportunity to recognise our shared Pacific histories and values, and the visit reflects the warm and meaningful relationship between New Zealand and Palau – both nations committed to the peace, prosperity, and wellbeing of our Blue Pacific region.
Wishing President Whipps and his delegation all the very best for their time in New Zealand.
This afternoon, in a very moving ceremony at Government House Auckland, Dame Cindy presented New Zealand Bravery Medals to five extraordinary New Zealanders – for their acts of exceptional bravery, in moments of extreme danger, to preserve the lives of others.
Her Excellency remarked on the importance of the ceremony in her speech: 'As Governor-General, I welcome this opportunity to salute your bravery, to express my sincerest gratitude and respect, and to assure you that your efforts will not be forgotten.'
Professor Tom Roa received his CNZM this morning at Government House Auckland for his many years of service to Māori language and education – notably his advocacy for the recognition of te reo Māori as an official language of New Zealand, and the launch of Te Wiki o te Reo Māori.
Distinguished Professor Emeritus Paul Spoonley received his ONZM for his prolific and impactful academic career across the areas of social change and demography – while Ms Helena Tuteao received her MNZM for services to people with disabilities and Māori. Recipients were acknowledged across a range of fields including education, costume design, athletics, and rugby league.
Dame Coral Shaw received the insignia of a Dame Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit this morning for her years of exceptional service to the judiciary, public service, and the wider community.
Dame Coral chaired the Royal Commission of Inquiry into Historical Abuse in State Care and in the Care of Faith-based Institutions from 2019 to 2024, and has been deeply involved with voluntary initiatives across prisoner rehabilitation, services to seniors, marae-based and local community services, and the Citizens Advice Bureau.
At the ceremony, Dame Cindy also presented Royal Honours insignia to seven other outstanding New Zealanders for services across agriculture and governance, Māori and business, the performing arts and education, ethnic communities, music, and the community.
This round of Auckland investiture ceremonies continued this afternoon, with eight further recipients being acknowledged for their outstanding achievements and service on behalf of fellow New Zealanders.
Among them were two recipients of the Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit: Mr Don Mackinnon, for services to sports governance, and Distinguished Professor Gaven Martin, for services to mathematics and education.
Very warmest congratulations to all of today's recipients, your friends and families.
Investiture ceremonies continued this afternoon with eight further recipients receiving their Royal Honours insignia at Government House Auckland. Mr Greg Barclay, who served as Independent Chairperson of the International Cricket Council (ICC) from 2020 to 2024, received his CNZM – while Rod Dixon, the only athlete in history to have medalled in the Olympic 1,500 metres and won the New York Marathon, received his ONZM. Mrs Ena Polima received her KSM for her many years of service to the Niuean community. Very warmest congratulations to all of today's recipients.
Investiture ceremonies got underway on this beautiful morning at Government House Auckland, with Dame Cindy presenting Royal Honours insignia to eight recipients. Mr Neil Bateup received his CNZM for services to the rural sector, notably for his extraordinary fundraising efforts following Cyclone Gabrielle. Mr David Corner was also recognised for his many years of advocacy on behalf of people with intellectual and learning disabilities.
Other recipients were acknowledged for their outstanding achievements and service to Māori, conservation, the arts, gerontology, broadcasting, and rugby league.
On Tuesday afternoon at Government House Wellington, Dame Cindy held a ceremony to affirm the appointment of Hon Cameron Brewer and Hon Mike Butterick to the Executive Council.
Minister Brewer and Minister Butterick were joined by their families for this special ceremony, which was also attended by Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, Hon Nicola Willis and Hon James Meager.
This afternoon, Dame Cindy hosted a reception to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the New Zealand Sign Language Act 2006. The Act established New Zealand Sign Language as an official language of New Zealand, providing for its use in legal proceedings and protecting it as a linguistic and cultural taonga.
Dame Cindy reflected on how this has shaped our history in her speech, saying: ‘Our people are our nation’s greatest resource. New Zealanders share a duty of care to uphold the mana of all our citizens, so that everyone has an opportunity to connect, express themselves, and contribute their talents.’ You can read Dame Cindy's full speech here: Reception for the 20th anniversary of the New Zealand Sign Language Act 2006
Thank you to all advocates, past and present, who work tirelessly to educate, protect and uphold New Zealand Sign Language.
Credentials ceremonies continued on this beautiful afternoon at Government House Wellington, with three further diplomatic Heads of Missions being welcomed to Aotearoa New Zealand: HE Mrs Chitralekha Yadav, Ambassador of the Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal; HE Mr António Luvualu de Carvalho, Ambassador of the Republic of Angola; and HE Ms Patricia Teran Basso, Ambassador of the Republic of Ecuador.
Very best wishes to all new Heads of Missions in carrying out their important duties.
On this bright autumn morning at Government House Wellington, Dame Cindy was delighted to receive the credentials of five new diplomatic Heads of Mission to New Zealand: HE Mr Mongkol Visitstump, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Thailand; HE Ms Muanpuii Saiawai, High Commissioner of the Republic of India; HE Mr Karl Stouthuysen, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Belgium; HE Mr Innocent Muhizi, High Commissioner of the Republic of Rwanda; and HE Mr Alisher Kayumov, Ambassador of the Republic of Uzbekistan.
On Wednesday morning, to begin Her Excellency’s time in Nelson, Dame Cindy was welcomed onto Whakatū Marae with a beautiful pōwhiri. The pōwhiri marked the beginning of a three-day visit to Nelson and Tasman where Dame Cindy will be meeting with local community groups, innovative businesses, schools and cultural institutions.
In her speech, Dame Cindy remarked: ‘one of the greatest privileges of my role is meeting those many New Zealanders around the country giving their time, energy, and talents in the service of others. Across these encounters, I am continually reminded of the strength and care that underpins our communities – values I so clearly feel here, at Whakatū Marae.’
Following their official welcome at Whakatū Marae, Their Excellencies visited the Nelson Centre of Musical Arts, where they listened in to a special rehearsal by the orchestra, and joined in song with the NelSONG Wellness Singers for a rendition of Pōkarekare Ana.
The visit was a reminder of the joy of nurturing creativity, and the importance of access to the arts for all members of our communities, including older New Zealanders. Warmest thanks to all those who shared their time and talents today.
Continuing Her Excellency’s first day in Nelson, Dame Cindy visited Multicultural Nelson Tasman, a local organisation providing support for migrants and former refugees through educational programmes, cultural events and workshops.
Dame Cindy enjoyed a dance performance from members of Multicultural Youth Nelson Tasman before meeting with those who have chosen to make their home here in the Nelson region. As Dame Cindy remarked, New Zealand is all the more rich in culture, diversity and kindness for your being here.
Dame Cindy and Dr Davies have been longstanding supporters of the Garden to Table schools programme, with Dame Cindy serving as patron of the Trust. Their Excellencies were delighted to visit Birchwood School and participate in their Garden to Table programme, helping tamariki with planting seeds, preparing fresh vegetables and cooking delicious fritters. Garden to Table helps tamariki recognise the benefits of preparing and eating healthy kai and gives them the skills to grow and nurture gardens.
To begin their second day in Nelson, Dame Cindy and Dr Davies visited the beautiful Brook Waimārama Sanctuary – the South Island's largest fully-fenced eco-sanctuary. During Their Excellencies' walk into the Brook Valley, they learned about the sanctuary's vital biodiversity and conservation efforts, and introduced themselves some of the kākā soon to be released.
Her Excellency took the opportunity to acknowledge the extraordinary efforts of volunteers, and the generosity of the community in protecting native species and preserving the region's natural heritage for future generations.
Continuing their second day in Nelson, Their Excellencies visited the Nelson Women’s Centre, a community hub offering practical support for women. The Centre provides counselling, access to social workers, workshops, group events and is a safe place for women to drop in for a chat or kai.
Dame Cindy enjoyed a tour of the facilities and met some of the wonderful women who support the Centre before contributing to a shared piece of art being worked on by those in the Art Circle workshop.
Following their time at the Nelson Women's Centre, Their Excellencies visited the Suter Art Gallery Te Aratoi o Whakatū, where they were given a tour by renowned photographer Craig Potton and Gallery Director Toni MacKinnon.
One of New Zealand’s oldest galleries, the Suter holds a very special place in our nation’s cultural landscape – a space that recognises and celebrates the vital role of the arts in shaping and understanding identities, sparking joy, and connecting people through shared stories and experiences.
In a very special ceremony that reflected the centrality of the blue economy to the Nelson region, Her Excellency was honoured to officially open The Blue House – a new hub designed to foster collaboration and innovation. Dame Cindy was joined by Nelson Mayor Hon Dr Nick Smith, Tasman Mayor Tim King, Westpac CEO Catherine McGrath, and key members of the Nelson marine economy.
The Blue House will bring together a range of businesses working to harness the growing economic, environmental and scientific potential of the ocean industry.
To conclude Her Excellency's second day in Nelson, Dame Cindy hosted a reception for emergency services personnel, first responders and other community supporters who have been on the frontline of recent severe weather events in the region. The event was a chance to thank those who have been integral to supporting their community through what have been difficult times.
The attendees were just a small portion of those who have contributed their time, skills and resources over the past few years when the region has needed it most.
As Dame Cindy noted in her speech: ‘I am aware there have also been many ordinary heroes whose bravery and selflessness in the most difficult of situations remains largely unacknowledged – but is no less appreciated. Their acts, and your acts, point to a profound love for this community and its people.’
To begin their final day in Nelson, Their Excellencies had the joy of visiting Pic's Peanut Butter, where they met legendary founder, Pic Picot. Pic shared his remarkable story, telling of how he began grinding peanuts in his garage, and grew the business into the internationally-recognised brand it is today.
Dame Cindy and Dr Davies also witnessed the fascinating process of transforming peanuts into the final product, and learned about the significant positive impact Pic’s is having on the local community.
To conclude their visit to Nelson Tasman, Their Excellencies visited Wakefield School – the oldest school in the region. Their Excellencies were treated to a rousing mihi whakatau, accompanied by a beautiful kapa haka performance from the students. Dame Cindy enjoyed hearing about the history of the school and their vision for the future as told by the students.
Our deepest thanks to all throughout the Nelson region who have so warmly and generously opened their doors and shared their stories with Dame Cindy throughout the week.
On Thursday evening, Dame Cindy hosted over 250 plumbers, gasfitters, drainlayers at Government House to mark 125 years of Master Plumbers.
Master Plumbers was established in 1901, and since then has provided continuous development and promotion of the plumbing trade in New Zealand. The organisation seeks to support excellence of its members through mentorship and training, and advocates for public health and safety.
This reception was a chance for those working within the trade from across the country to come together and celebrate this significant milestone.
Dame Cindy hosted a reception at Government House Auckland to celebrate the 10th anniversary of Te Papa Foundation Foundation.
Te Papa Foundation works to preserve our precious national taonga and funds world-leading research. The careful preservation of our history, culture and natural flora and fauna is so crucial to our sense of identity as New Zealanders.
Guests were treated to a presentation from Te Papa’s Curator of Botany Dr Carlos Lehnebach about the vital work being undertaken to document, care for and protect our beautiful botanical taonga.
Dame Cindy hosted a reception at Government House Auckland for Global Women’s newest Life Members: Rt Hon Helen Clark, Hon Margaret Wilson, Dame Theresa Gattung and Dame Ranjna Patel. These four outstanding women have all made indelible impacts throughout their careers as leaders in New Zealand.
Global Women is a not-for-profit organisation founded to accelerate women’s leadership and influence across New Zealand. The organisation currently has over 400 members working across a range of sectors to drive diversity, equity and inclusion.
On Tuesday night at Government House Auckland, Dr Davies hosted a launch for the new book ‘Kiwis in Climate – Voices for Climate Solutions’. This is a publication that brings together over thirty voices from innovative New Zealanders leading the way in sustainability.
The book sets out a bold and practical vision for the sustainable future of New Zealand and demonstrates how mitigation and adaption to the impacts of climate change is necessary for the prosperity of our communities.
The launch brought together a panel of New Zealand climate innovators who discussed solutions for green energy, the road to net-zero emissions, and Aotearoa's potential to become an environmental innovator.
On Saturday, Dame Cindy hosted the 50th reunion of the Sir Denis Blundell Police Cadet Wing at Government House Wellington. The class of 1976 was the first to receive vice regal patronage and the first to graduate from Government House.
The Sir Denis Blundell cadet wing was also the first to undertake 12 months of training, whereas previous courses had been 18 months. Those who were under the age of nineteen at the time of graduation would be posted as cadets to continue their training in the field.
Dame Cindy quoted from the graduation programme from 1976 where Sir Denis noted: ‘for the proper discharge of your duties, there is required of each of you such qualities as compassion, understanding and a sense of fair-play to go hand in hand with the need for firmness and fearlessness when these are required’.
The reception was a wonderful opportunity to reminisce, reconnect and share memories of that graduation day 50 years ago. You can read Dame Cindy's full speech here, and view more images from the reception here.
Last night, Government House Wellington was filled with the sound of beautiful voices as Dame Cindy hosted the Dame Malvina Major Foundation's 35th anniversary celebration. The evening featured performances from some of the country's most talented singers, showcasing the exceptional artistry fostered by the Foundation.
Dame Malvina’s own legendary voice and legacy of supporting young New Zealand singers have left an indelible mark on our country's cultural life, and her commitment to nurturing talent has allowed generations of performers to pursue their dreams in the great opera houses of the world.
Very warmest congratulations to the Dame Malvina Major Foundation on this milestone anniversary, and wishing you all the very best for the future.
Last night in the Banquet Hall at Parliament, Dame Cindy attended a celebration of Commonwealth Day, honouring the shared values and ideals of the Commonwealth of Nations.
During the event, Her Excellency delivered His Majesty King Charles III's Commonwealth Day Message, which emphasised the importance of caring for one another and the planet we share. The evening also included performances by Sam Manzanza and cultural groups from Wellington East Girls’ College, as well as moments of reflection and prayer led by representatives from Wellington's faith communities.
In his message for this year, His Majesty, Head of the Commonwealth, said: 'We join together on this Commonwealth Day at a time of great challenge and great possibility. Across our world, communities and nations face the increasing pressures of conflict, climate change and rapid transformation. Yet it is often in such testing moments that the enduring spirit of the Commonwealth is most clearly revealed.'
This morning, Dr Davies attended the annual SS Ōtaki commemorative wreath laying at Ōtaki College. This event honours those who lost their lives in the 1917 sinking of the SS Ōtaki and remembers all who have been lost at sea.
The theme for this year’s ceremony was centred on women at sea in times of war. With yesterday being International Women’s Day, it was fitting to reflect on the important, but sometimes forgotten, role women have played in the story of the Merchant Navy in wartime.
As Dr Davies said in his speech: 'Everyday people don't go out in search of opportunities to be courageous - more often than not they will find courage when circumstances demand they do - whether it be in peace or war.'
You can read the full speech here, and view more images from the event here.
