As Patron of Whānau Āwhina Plunket, Dame Cindy joined members of their organisation to farewell outgoing Chief Executive, Amanda Malu, who held the role for six years. Among Amanda's achievements during her time with the infant/tamariki health service was her work leading Whānau Āwhina Plunket’s transformation to become a more pro-equity organisation. She was also involved in reclaiming the story of two wāhine toa, Mere Harper and Ria Tikini (Kāi Tahu and Kāti Huirapa), who were instrumental in the foundation of Whānau Āwhina Plunket over 100 years ago.
In her speech, Dame Cindy also acknowledged organisation's namesake, Lady Victoria Plunket, and the role she played in the early days of Plunket's beginnings. You can read the speech here.
This morning at Government House Auckland, Dame Cindy and Dr Davies hosted a morning tea in celebration of New Zealand Riding for the Disabled’s 60th anniversary.
NZRDA aims to improve health and wellbeing outcomes for people who are experiencing disability, or who have specific challenges or needs, through interaction with horses. NZRDA caters to around 3,000 riders annually – eighty per cent being children or teenagers.
You can read Dame Cindy's speech from the event here, and find more images here.
Today the rain held off long enought for Government House to offer our full outdoor credential ceremonies, including powhiri and an inspection of a Guard of Honour. Dame Cindy received the credentials of six new diplomatic envoys to New Zealand. This morning, Dame Cindy hosted HE Mr Ratu Inoke Kubuabola, High Commissioner for the Republic of Fiji; HE Mr Feue Tipu, High Commissioner for Tuvalu; and HE Ms Iona Thomas, High Commissioner for the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland. This afternoon it was the turn of HE Mr Adrianus Marinus Maria van der Vorst, Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands; HE Mr Vasyl Myroshnychenko, Ambassador of Ukraine; and HE Mr Werner Matias Romero Guerra, Ambassador of the Republic of El Salvador.
This morning at the Beehive, Dame Cindy officially opened Youth Parliament 2022. Held every three years, Youth Parliament provides a unique opportunity for a diverse group of young New Zealanders to learn first-hand about New Zealand's democratic processes, influence government decision-making, and have their voices heard. Selected rangatahi represent their community, as either a Youth Member of Parliament, member of the Youth Press Gallery, or, this year, as the very first Youth Clerk of the House of Representatives.
You can read Dame Cindy's speech here, and find more images from the event here.
Christchurch investiture ceremonies continued this morning at the Town Hall, with seven further recipients honoured for their outstanding work across New Zealand. Professor John Simpson received his insignia for services to art education – serving as the head of the University of Canterbury’s School of Fine Arts for more than 30 years, and driving a modernisation of the school's courses and teaching. Ms Laura Thompson also received her insignia as an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit for her work as a sighted pilot for Para-cyclists – a competing career that included 10 world championship and five Paralympic medals.
Thursday afternoon saw the final investiture ceremony held in Christchurch, with Dame Cindy presenting insignia to seven further Honours recipients. Among them was Christine Lake, honoured for over 20 years with New Zealand’s largest health and wellbeing support service for young children – the Royal New Zealand Plunket Society. During her time with Plunket, Ms Lake helped to guide the organisation through significant change, including the recent re-brand to Whānau Āwhina Plunket. Also recognised was former cricket international Janice Steed, and Diana Reid, who helped to establish the Malvern Cancer Support Group in Darfield in 1983. Congratulations to all of this afternoon’s recipients.
Dame Cindy presented insignia to six Honours recipients this afternoon at the Christchurch Town Hall. Dr Michael Dunbier was acknowledged for services to agricultural science, including as Director of DSIR Crop Research, and foundation CEO of the New Zealand Institute for Crop and Food Research Ltd. Francis and Shireen Helps were also acknowledged for services to wildlife conservation, particularly in their support of kororā (little penguins) and hoiho (yellow eyed penguins). Sincere congratulations to all of this afternoon's recipients.
This afternoon at the Christchurch Town Hall, Dame Cindy hosted the New Zealand Bravery Awards, acknowledging those who exhibited such extraordinary courage at the Al Noor Mosque and Linwood Islamic Centre on 15th March 2019. The family of the late Dr Naeem Rashid, who lost his life that day, accepted the insignia of the New Zealand Cross on his behalf. Each of today's Bravery Award recipients helped to save the lives of others, and they have earned the deepest respect and admiration of all New Zealanders.
Dame Cindy welcomed a further five new Ambassadors to New Zealand today: HE Ms Biljana Stefanovska-Sekovska, Ambassador of The Republic of North Macedonia; HE Mr Sinchai Manivanh, or of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic; HE Mr Davaasuren Damdinsuren, Ambassador of Mongolia; HE Mr Oscar Atehortua Duque, Ambassador of The Republic of Colombia; and HE Mr Rade Stefanovic, Ambassador of The Republic of Serbia. Members of the Royal New Zealand Navy once again provided the pōwhiri and Guard of Honour for the ceremony outside.
Today, four new diplomatic representatives presented their credentials at Government House Wellington. Dame Cindy and Dr Davies welcomed HE Mr Daniel Rosa, Ambassador to the Republic of Angola; HE Mr Robert Pimentel, Ambassador of the Dominican Republic; HE Mrs Wassane Zailachi, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Morocco; and HE Ms Marie Monty, High Commissioner of the Republic of Mauritius. Representatives from the Royal New Zealand Navy provided the stunning pōwhiri and Guard of Honour.
This evening at the National Library, Dame Cindy delivered the annual Founder Lecture, hosted by the Friends of the Turnbull Library. Her Excellency's lecture was entitled, 'Kia whakatōmuri te haere whakamua: Approaching our past with curiosity and courage', and focussed on New Zealand's relationship with its past, and the important role of the Turnbull Library in that relationship. In delivering the Founder Lecture, Dame Cindy joins an esteemed list of New Zealand academics, leaders, and artists, including Dame Anne Salmond, CK Stead, and Dr Ranginui Walker.
'The Turnbull Library helps New Zealanders to do that precious and ineffable and most human of things: it helps us to remember.'
Ko tōku reo tōku ohooho, ko tōku reo tōku māpihi maurea My language is my awakening, my language is the window to my soul
2022 marks the beginning of the United Nations Decade of Indigenous Languages, which recognises the right to revitalise and promote languages, and linguistic diversity around the world.
Many indigenous languages are in a critical state. This initiative aims to help the global community work together to preserve these languages for generations to come.
In these messages, Dame Cindy Kiro (Ngāpuhi, Ngāti Hine, Ngāti Kahu) and her Canadian counterpart Mary Simon (Inuk), speak about importance of te reo Māori and Inuit languages, and the efforts to revitalise them in Aotearoa New Zealand and Canada. Governor-General Mary Simon's message will be released in the coming weeks.
For more information about the New Zealand National Commission and their work on indigenous language and knowledge, click here.
Last night at Government House Wellington, Dame Cindy and Dr Davies hosted the Diplomatic Corps for a very special Matariki Dinner, to mark the first time that New Zealand has observed Matariki as a public holiday. The mid-winter reappearance of the Matariki star cluster signals the start of the Māori New Year, and with it, a period of remembrance, reflection, and celebration.
‘I encourage you all to look up into the early morning sky, as our ancestors did, and to see those stars with that same sense of wonder and faith.’
Mānawatia a Matariki!
You can see more images from the event here, and read Dame Cindy's speech here.
He Wahine Maori Ahau is an inspirational speaker series focussing on the experience of Wahine Maori in the Public Service. The topic of yesterday's forum at the National Library was 'The Impact of the past on women today'. Dame Cindy was welcomed with a powhiri before being joined on the podium by senior public servants Heather Baggott, Deputy Public Service Commissioner; and Melanie Mark-Shadbolt, Deputy Secretary Tūmatakōkiri at the Ministry for the Environment. A common theme in all their korero was the enduring influence of significant women in their formative years, and their ongoing responsibility to support the growth of future leaders. Dame Cindy also took the opportunity to visit He Tohu, where she was delighted to discern the signatures of her tipuna on the parchment Tiriti o Waitangi, signed on 6 February 1840 in Waitangi.
Dame Cindy and Dr Davies attended the Japan Festival in Wellington yesterday – a very special event that also marked the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Japan and New Zealand. This biennial celebration of Japanese culture featured musical performances, two giant kimono, and a range of Japanese cuisine.
Thousands of Wellingtonians turned out for the event, also attended by His Excellency Mr Koichi Ito, Japanese Ambassador to New Zealand, His Worship Andy Foster, Mayor of Wellington, and of course, the Zespri Kiwi Brothers. Congratulations to the Japan Festival Wellington Trust, Wellington City Council, and Japanese Embassy on a hugely successful festival.
You can see more images from the event here, and read Dame Cindy's speech here.
Today marks Suzanne Aubert's 187th birthday. Mother Aubert devoted her life to looking after those in need, and founded the Daughters of Our Lady of Compassion. Last night, Dame Cindy and Dr Davies visited the Compassion Soup Kitchen in Wellington, to help with the dinner service for Mother Aubert's birthday. The Compassion Soup Kitchen continues Mother Aubert's remarkable legacy by supporting people in need in our community, including those struggling with mental health issues, addiction, homelessness, and poverty.
Last night's concert by NZTrio marked the 20th year since it was formed. The current line-up of Ashley Brown, Amalia Hall and Somi Kim gave an exquisite performance of classic and contemporary music.
This afternoon at Government House Wellington, Dame Cindy authorised the appointment of Hon Kieran McAnulty to the Executive Council, as well as the appointment of Ministers to their new portfolios, on the advice of the Prime Minister.
Minister McAnulty was joined by his family for the very special ceremony, which was also attended by Hon Kelvin Davis and Hon Kiri Allan.
There’s an old saying that goes “if you want something done, ask a busy person”. This afternoon, Dame Cindy hosted a group that truly embodies that phrase - the Auckland Justices of the Peace Association. This year marks the Centenary of the AJAP, who have been voluntarily assisting the people of Tāmaki Makaurau since October 1922. The role of a Justice of the Peace can be Ministerial or Judicial, with duties ranging from certifying documents to issuing search warrants. The AJAP currently has 1200 sworn JPs and are able to help in over 30 languages.
This afternoon, Dame Cindy officially opened Vision Bus Aotearoa; University of Auckland - Waipapa Taumata Rau's initiative to help solve inequities and barriers of access in getting better eye health to those in need. The School of Optometry and Vision Science had been screening the vision of thousands of school children in the greater Auckland area, and found one in ten had a vision impairment that was not yet being treated. With the help of this new mobile optometry clinic, the School has the ability to provide a wider range of free eye-health services to more people.
To (belatedly) celebrate Gunners Day, Dame Cindy hosted a dinner for the Royal New Zealand Artillery Association at Government House Auckland. The RNZAA was formed in 1934 by World War I veterans, and continues as an advocacy group for New Zealand Gunners past and present.
During the dinner, Dame Cindy presented Lt Col (Rtd.) Tony McLeod with a pounamu, thanking him for his 11 years served as President of the RNZAA. Lt Col McLeod is no stranger to Government House, having served as aide-de-Camp to former Governor-General Sir Keith Holyoake back in the 70s.
To celebrate the Platinum Jubilee of HM Queen Elizabeth II, Dame Cindy and Dr Davies travelled to the United Kingdom to represent Aotearoa at the official celebrations. The trip began with a meeting with New Zealand High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, HE Mr Bede Corry.
Next was Service of Thanksgiving at St Paul’s Cathedral in London. This event was attended by members of the Royal family, dignitaries and representatives from the Commonwealth. The Service was followed by a reception hosted by Lord Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan.
On the 4th of June, Dame Cindy and Dr Davies attended the Platinum Jubilee Reception and Concert, featuring projections on the side of Buckingham palace and an impressive drone diplay lighting up the sky in many forms (including Corgis, naturally).
The following day, Their Excellencies watched as members of the New Zealand Defence Force marched in the Platinum Jubilee Pageant. The Pageant was a four-part story of The Queen’s 70-year reign.
While in the UK, Dame Cindy had the chance to meet with other Governors-General from around the Commonwealth. She held bilateral meetings with HE Gen the Hon David Hurley, Governor-General of Australia; HE Mary Simon, Governor-General of Canada; HE Dame Froyla Tzalam, Governor-General of Belize; and HE the Hon Grand Chief Sir Bob Dadae, Governor-General of Papua New Guinea.
To celebrate Her Majesty The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee, a Service of Celebration was held at the Cathedral of St Paul in Wellington this morning. The Administrator of the Government Rt Hon Dame Helen Winkelmann attended in place of Dame Cindy, who is in London for the Jubilee celebrations.
The service featured reflections about Her Majesty from former deputy prime minister and secretary-general of the Commonwealth, Sir Don McKinnon, and Queen’s Young Leader award winner Ezekiel Raui.
This morning's six recipients of honours insignia at Government House included Dr Geoff Lorigan, CNZM, who was acknowledged for his work in strategic development, academia and business. Sporting prowess featured in the careers of two recipients: Jane Tehira, ONZM who was a representative player in three different sporting codes and a member of the women's rugby team that won the 1949 Te Rarawa Challenge Cup; and Jim McPhee, who represented New Zealand in judo at Commonwealth and Olympic Games.
Today was the final day of the Auckland investiture round. The eight recipients of honours this afternoon were acknowledged for their services to the State and the community, education and historical research, governance and education, philanthropy, public health nursing, disability and education, community and charity fundraising and performing arts governance.
Congratulations to Dame Marie Shroff and the other recipients.
On 15 March, His Excellency Dr Richard Davies was invested as an Officer of St John and took up the role of Patron for Community Health.
Last week, St John hosted Dr Davies to a comprehensive induction tour, including its Community Health programmes and services. Dr Davies visited Farm Cove Intermediate to see St John's Whatuia te Waiora Weaving Wellbeing programme in action, before going to St John retail stores and a Manukau Area Committee showcase. The Kelston Youth Division enabled Dr Davies to see youth members undertaking badge work and practical sessions and present a number of awards. Dr Davies also boarded a Health Shuttle and met the shuttle volunteers.
At St John Archives Dr Davies learnt about the history of St John and the variety of Community Care services that St John delivers to the community, and the impact of COVID-19 on those services. The Therapy Pet volunteers and their furry friends were a particular hit with Dr Davies. St John's Communications Centre provided an opportunity for him to see the sophistacated communication technology used in emergency response.
Tonight’s reception for the Himalayan Trust at Government House Auckland celebrated Everest Day – 29 May 2022 is the 69th anniversary of the historic conquest of Everest by Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay. It was just as much about Sir Ed's wonderful legacy - the Himalayan Trust. Peter Hillary reminded us how perfect our timing was, as his speech coincided with the moment when his father reached the summit. Ang Kaji Sherpa spoke about the education he received at one of the many schools built by Sir Ed, which then enabled him to pursue training as a mountain guide in the Himalayas. Sir Ed's Himialayan Trust has transformed communities with its ambitious programme of building schools and hospitals in the Solukhumbu Everest region.
This morning's eight honours recipients included Sir Wayne Shelford KNZM, former All Black Captain and men's health advocate, and Rawiri Paratene, who received his CNZM for his services to Maori, film and theatre. Recipients were acknowledged for outstanding services to local government and the community, race relations and youth, to mental health, transitional housing, and as a General Practitioner.
At this afternoon’s investiture ceremony, eight honours recipients received their insignia. They included Maxine Shortland, who has contributed 40 years to Netball as a player, coach, manager and administrator. Her governance roles in Northland have included Chief Operating Officer at Ngati Hine Health Trust.
Heather Tanguay received a QSO for services to local government and the community. She was recognised for her time as Mayor and City Councillor in Palmerston North. Through her work with Palmerston North Red Cross, she helped settle hundreds of refugees into the area.
A New Zealand sporting trailblazer received a DNZM this morning at Government House. Dame Ruia Morrison was recognised for her outstanding tennis career, where she was the first Māori to compete at Wimbledon. She played in the 1957, 1958 1960 tournaments, and has since become a pivotal figure in Aotearoa tennis. Dame Ruia was also the New Zealand Open singles champion six times, famously beating Margaret Court in the 1960 final.
Hon Steve Chadwick was honoured for her career in both local and central government. As a Member of Parliament, she was Minister of Conservation, Women’s Affairs and Associate Minister of Health. She has been Mayor of Rotorua since 2013.
Among the eight recipients at this afternoon’s investiture ceremony was Teremoana Rapley, where she was recognised for contributions to music and television. Teremoana is known for her solo music career, as part of Moana and the Moahunters, and collaborations with other artists like King Kapisi and Che Fu. Teremoana has also been a presenter on Mai Time, and was a producer at Māori Television for 10 years.
Also recognised was Harry Mikaere, who has contributed significantly to New Zealand’s aquaculture industry. Chef Rob Oliver received an MNZM for services to the food industry and Pacific Communities.
Former Auckland City Missioner, Sir Chris Farrelly, received his KNZM at Government House this morning. Sir Chris was recognised for his long career in Te Tai Tokerau’s health sector, and for his work leading the Auckland City Mission. As Missioner, he led the development of the City Mission’s new facility, HomeGround.
Also receiving honours was journalist Jim Tucker, who has contributed to the industry for over 50 years, and Margery Pita, who was an original member of the Māori Volcanics Showband.
