Skip to main content Skip to navigation
Back to top anchor
Home The Governor-General of New Zealand
The Governor-General of New Zealand
Page url
  • Home
  • News and Events
  • Contact us
  • Tours and Education
Open search Close search
  • The Governor-General
    • Biography of The Rt Hon Dame Cindy Kiro, GNZM, QSO
    • Biography of Dr Richard Davies
    • Media statements
    • Speeches by The Rt Hon Dame Cindy Kiro
    • The Governor-General's blog
  • Office of the Governor-General
    • Coronation of King Charles III and Queen Camilla
      • About the Coronation service
      • The King of New Zealand
      • Get involved
      • Coronation events
    • Roles and functions of the Governor-General
      • Constitutional role
        • New Zealand’s Constitution
          • On the Constitution of New Zealand
          • The Queen's constitutional and public ceremonial roles
        • Credentials ceremonies
        • The Executive Council
        • The Reserve Powers
        • The Royal prerogative of mercy
      • Ceremonial role
        • Investiture ceremonies
          • Information for recipients
        • New Zealand Royal Honours
      • Community role
      • International Role
    • Conditions of Appointment
      • Administrator of the Government
      • The Governor-General Act
      • The Governor-General's Flag
    • History
      • New Zealand's Governor-General - an historical perspective
      • Former Governors-General
    • Invitations, patronage and cards
      • Invitations for the Governor-General
        • Dress code for Government House events
      • Hosting the Governor-General
      • Order of precedence in New Zealand
      • Applying for vice-regal patronage
      • Current Vice-regal patronages
      • Congratulatory messages
    • Contacting the Governor-General
      • Guidance for writing to the Governor-General
    • Official portraits
    • Royal Commission Reports
  • Government House
    • Government House Wellington
      • Government House tours
        • Accessibility Information
        • Education tours
          • Educational resources
        • Group tours
        • Upcoming public tours
      • Rooms of Government House
        • Bledisloe Conservatory
        • Blundell and Porritt Rooms
        • Fitzroy Room
        • Galway and guest suites
        • Liverpool Room
        • Main Hallway
        • Maota Ariki
        • The Ballroom
        • The Council Room
        • The Landing
        • The Norrie State Dining Room
        • The Taupaepae
      • Artwork and artifacts
        • Carved coats of arms
          • The carvers and timber
          • Understanding an Achievement of Arms
          • The Designs
          • New Zealand elements
      • Government House centenary
      • Government House conservation
        • Conservation rationale
        • The project in detail
    • Government House Auckland
      • Government House Auckland garden tours
        • Group garden tours
        • Upcoming public garden tours
      • Planning your visit and accessibility
      • History of the gardens
    • Other Government Houses
    • Staff at Government House
      • Management of Government House
    • Tours

Browse all sections

  • The Governor-General
    • Biography of The Rt Hon Dame Cindy Kiro, GNZM, QSO
    • Biography of Dr Richard Davies
    • Media statements
    • Speeches by The Rt Hon Dame Cindy Kiro
    • The Governor-General's blog
  • Office of the Governor-General
    • Coronation of King Charles III and Queen Camilla
      • About the Coronation service
      • The King of New Zealand
      • Get involved
      • Coronation events
    • Roles and functions of the Governor-General
      • Constitutional role
        • New Zealand’s Constitution
        • Credentials ceremonies
        • The Executive Council
        • The Reserve Powers
        • The Royal prerogative of mercy
      • Ceremonial role
        • Investiture ceremonies
        • New Zealand Royal Honours
      • Community role
      • International Role
    • Conditions of Appointment
      • Administrator of the Government
      • The Governor-General Act
      • The Governor-General's Flag
    • History
      • New Zealand's Governor-General - an historical perspective
      • Former Governors-General
    • Invitations, patronage and cards
      • Invitations for the Governor-General
        • Dress code for Government House events
      • Hosting the Governor-General
      • Order of precedence in New Zealand
      • Applying for vice-regal patronage
      • Current Vice-regal patronages
      • Congratulatory messages
    • Contacting the Governor-General
      • Guidance for writing to the Governor-General
    • Official portraits
    • Royal Commission Reports
  • Government House
    • Government House Wellington
      • Government House tours
        • Accessibility Information
        • Education tours
        • Group tours
        • Upcoming public tours
      • Rooms of Government House
        • Bledisloe Conservatory
        • Blundell and Porritt Rooms
        • Fitzroy Room
        • Galway and guest suites
        • Liverpool Room
        • Main Hallway
        • Maota Ariki
        • The Ballroom
        • The Council Room
        • The Landing
        • The Norrie State Dining Room
        • The Taupaepae
      • Artwork and artifacts
        • Carved coats of arms
      • Government House centenary
      • Government House conservation
        • Conservation rationale
        • The project in detail
    • Government House Auckland
      • Government House Auckland garden tours
        • Group garden tours
        • Upcoming public garden tours
      • Planning your visit and accessibility
      • History of the gardens
    • Other Government Houses
    • Staff at Government House
      • Management of Government House
    • Tours
  1. Home
  2. The Governor-General
  3. The Governor-General's blog

The Governor-General's blog

The official blog of the Governor-General of New Zealand

  • Investiture Ceremony 1 October 2024 AM

    Post date:
    Tuesday, 1 Oct 2024
    Category:
    Feature

    To begin the final week of investitures at Government House Auckland, Dame Cindy welcomed eight New Zealand Royal Honours recipients. Former Queenstown mayor, Jim Boult, received a CNZM for services to local government, tourism and the community. Mr Boult was mayor of Queenstown Lakes District Council from 2016-2022, and has contributed to many community organisations, including the Child Cancer Foundation where he serves as Patron.

    Also among those recognised was journalist Rachel Smalley, receiving an MNZM for services to broadcasting and health advocacy. Ms Smalley has presented current affairs programmes on television and radio for over 25 years, working both nationally and internationally. Warm congratulations to all this morning’s recipients.   

    The photos from today's ceremony can be found here: 1 October AM Investiture Media Gallery.

    Ms Rachel Smalley, Dame Cindy Kiro
    No Rights Reserved (CC0)
    Kings Birthday Investiture Ceremony October 1 AM 2024

    Contact us directly

    Read more
  • Investiture Ceremony 27 September 2024 AM

    Post date:
    Friday, 27 Sep 2024
    Category:
    Feature

    For this week’s final investiture ceremony, Dame Cindy welcomed eight recipients to Government House Auckland. Former Silver Fern Adine Wilson was recognised for her contributions to netball in New Zealand. Ms Wilson played for the Silver Ferns from 1999-2007, was part of the World Cup winning team in 2003, and was captain when the Silver Ferns won their first Commonwealth Games gold in 2006.

    Also among those honoured today was Vincent Ashworth, who received a CNZM for services to agriculture. Mr Ashworth was a Senior Agriculturalist with the World Bank, helping farmers in over 30 developing countries with food production. Warm congratulations to all of today’s recipients!

    Mr Vincent Ashworth, of Morrinsville, CNZM for services to agriculture
    No Rights Reserved (CC0)

    You can find more images from this morning's ceremony in the Investiture Ceremony 27 September 2024 AM image gallery.

    Kings Birthday Investiture Ceremony September 27 am 2024

    Contact us directly

    Read more
  • Investiture Ceremony 26 September 2024 PM

    Post date:
    Thursday, 26 Sep 2024
    Category:
    Feature

    Eight further outstanding New Zealanders received their Royal Honours insignia this afternoon at Government House Auckland. Their diverse achievements and areas of service spanned health and health advocacy, education, Pacific performing arts, Māori, the Anglican Church, rugby league, and mosaic art. Our very warmest congratulations to all of this afternoon's recipients.

    For more photos, click here: Investiture Ceremony 26 September media gallery.

    Professor Ian Bissett, Dame Cindy Kiro
    No Rights Reserved (CC0)
    Kings Birthday Investiture Ceremony September 26 2024 PM

    Contact us directly

    Read more
  • Investiture Ceremony 26 September 2024 AM

    Post date:
    Thursday, 26 Sep 2024
    Category:
    Feature

    Investiture ceremonies continued this morning at Government House Auckland, with eight further recipients acknowledged for their outstanding service and achievements across New Zealand communities. Among those recognised today was Mr Dan Allen-Gordon, who received his KSO for services to youth and charitable governance – notably through his establishment of the Graeme Dingle Foundation Bay of Plenty, whose work has had an immense positive impact on thousands of young people in long-term programmes. Miss Leitualaalemalietoa Pavihi also received her MNZM for her outstanding commitment to the protection and growth of the Niuean language. Our warmest congratulations to all of today's recipients!

    Mr Dan Allen-Gordon, of Tauranga, CNZM for services to youth and charitable governance
    No Rights Reserved (CC0)

    You can find more images from this morning's ceremony in the Investiture Ceremony 26 September 2024 AM image gallery.

    Kings Birthday Investiture Ceremony September 26 2024 AM

    Contact us directly

    Read more
  • Investiture Ceremony 25 September 2024 AM

    Post date:
    Wednesday, 25 Sep 2024
    Category:
    Feature

    This morning, Dame Cindy welcomed seven recipients to Government House for their investiture ceremony. Phillip Lam received an MNZM for services to martial arts, recognising how he pioneered the sport in New Zealand. Mr Lam introduced kung fu to Aotearoa in 1975, and later Muay Thai/Thai boxing. He founded Lee Gar Kung Fu and Lee Gar Thai Boxing, and has coached many of our champion fighters.

    Also among those recognised was Fleur Corbett, who received an MNZM for services to conservation. Mrs Corbett has been heavily involved with Guardians of the Bay of Islands, working to remove pests and restore seven islands to reintroduce native species. Congratulations to all of today’s recipients! 

    Mr Bill Holland, of Tauranga, CNZM for services to community governance and philanthropy
    No Rights Reserved (CC0)

    You can find more images from this morning's ceremony via the Investiture Ceremony 25 September 2024 AM image gallery.

    Kings Birthday Investiture 25 September 2024 AM

    Contact us directly

    Read more
  • Investiture Ceremony 24 September 2024 AM

    Post date:
    Tuesday, 24 Sep 2024
    Category:
    Feature

    Dame Cindy welcomed eight recipients to Government House this morning, beginning the King’s Birthday 2024 Honours investitures in Tāmaki Makaurau. Former Manukau City Councillors, Anne Candy (CNZM) and Colleen Brown (KSO), were recognised for their significant contributions to the Counties Manukau community. Both were also members of the Counties Manukau District Health Board.

    Also among those recognised was Julie Paterson, who received an MNZM for services to women and sport. Ms Paterson co-founded Women in Sport Aotearoa, and was member of the International Tennis Federation’s global committee for Gender Equality in Tennis. Warm congratulations to all this morning’s recipients.

    Ms Anne Candy, of Auckland, CNZM for services to Māori and local government
    No Rights Reserved (CC0)

    You can find more images from this morning's ceremony via the Investiture Ceremony 24 September 2024 AM image gallery.

    Kings Birthday Investiture Ceremony September 24 AM

    Contact us directly

    Read more
  • Investiture Ceremony 24 September 2024 PM

    Post date:
    Tuesday, 24 Sep 2024
    Category:
    Feature

    At this afternoon’s investiture ceremony, women’s rowing pioneer Lesley Milne received a CNZM to honour her decades of services to the sport. She was part of the first women’s crew to represent New Zealand in Europe in 1974, and continued a strong involvement with rowing as a coach, an umpire, and in governance roles. She served as President of Rowing New Zealand - the only woman to have held this role. 

    Dr Murray Williams was also among those being recognised, receiving an ONZM for services to wildlife conservation and science. Dr Williams has been instrumental in the establishment and implementation of conservation programmes for our endangered waterfoul, most notably the Whio. He provided the photo of the Whio that appeared on an earlier version of our $10 banknote. Congratulations to all this afternoon's recipients.

    Dr Murray Williams, Dame Cindy Kiro
    No Rights Reserved (CC0)
    Kings Birthday Investiture 24 September 2024 PM

    Contact us directly

    Read more
  • 2024 Pūkākī Educational Awards

    Post date:
    Thursday, 12 Sep 2024
    Category:
    Feature

    This morning, Dame Cindy welcomed young student leaders from Rotorua schools who are the  recipients of the 2024 Pūkākī Educational Awards. The image of Pūkākī, a great Ngāti Whakaue rangatira, has appeared on our 20c coin since 1990. To acknowledge the significance of this, the Reserve Bank began the Pūkākī Educational Awards in 2004, recognising young student leaders who descend from Ngāti Whakaue. As part of the Award, the recipients come to Wellington to visit Government House, Parliament and the Reserve Bank.

    For more photos, click here: 2024 Pūkākī Educational Awards Media Gallery.

    Dame Cindy and Sonia Cooper
    No Rights Reserved (CC0)

    Contact us directly

    Read more
  • Investiture Ceremony 11 September 2024 am

    Post date:
    Wednesday, 11 Sep 2024
    Category:
    Feature

    In this morning's investiture ceremony hosted at Government House Wellington, Dame Cindy acknowledged eight members of Fire and Emergency New Zealand, for their outstanding commitment to the safety and wellbeing of their communities over many years. Among those recognised was Mr Ralph Fegan, who received his insignia as an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit in acknowledgement of his 22 years in the Franz Josef Volunteer Fire Brigade and 17 years in the Wānaka Fire Brigade. 

    Today's investiture marks the conclusion of this round of Wellington King's Birthday Honours ceremonies for the year. Our very warmest congratulations to all recipients, for your outstanding achievements and service to Aotearoa New Zealand. 

    'Whāia te iti kahurangi ki te tūohu koe me he maunga teitei. Seek the treasure you value most dearly: if you bow your head, let it be to a lofty mountain.'

    Mr Ralph Fegan, of Wanaka, ONZM for services to Fire and Emergency New Zealand and the community
    No Rights Reserved (CC0)

    You can find further images from the morning's ceremony via the following link: Investiture Ceremony 11 September 2024 am.

    King's Birthday Investiture Wednesday 11 September AM

    Contact us directly

    Read more
  • Investiture Ceremony 10 September 2024 pm

    Post date:
    Tuesday, 10 Sep 2024
    Category:
    Feature

    For this afternoon’s ceremony, 10 further recipients were welcomed to Government House for their investiture. Among them was Tanya Ashken, a notable sculptor, silversmith and jeweller. She produced jewellery for HRH Princess Ann during her 1970 tour of New Zealand, and her sculpture ‘Albatross’ has been a prominent feature on the Wellington waterfront since it was unveiled in 1986.

    Also recognised was Scratch Jansen, who received an ONZM for services to wildlife conservation. He has helped with the relocation of kōkako to predator-free islands, and was the leader of the Kākāpō Recovery Group Leader for DOC. Mr Jansen has also been heavily involved with the Capital Kiwi Project, which has seen North Island Brown kiwi reintroduced into a 23,000 hectare area from Red Rocks in Wellington to Whitireia Park in Porirua Congratulations to all of this afternoon’s recipients.

    For more photos from this afternoon's ceremony, click here: 10 September Investiture Media Gallery.

    Miss Katareina Kaiwai, Dame Cindy Kiro
    No Rights Reserved (CC0)

    Contact us directly

    Read more
  • Investiture Ceremony 10 September 2024 am

    Post date:
    Tuesday, 10 Sep 2024
    Category:
    Feature

    To begin the final week of Wellington’s King’s Birthday 2024 investiture ceremonies, Dame Cindy welcomed 10 recipients to Government House. Among them was Gemma New, who received an ONZM for services to music direction. She has conducted over 50 orchestras around the world, including in the United States, Canada, Scotland, and holds the distinction of being the first woman to be the Principal Conductor of the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra. Also among those recognised was David Cade, who received a KSM for services to conservation and bio-security awareness. He is a leading advocate for the control and reduction of didymo  – an invasive pest that harms our fresh waters.

    To view images from this morning's ceremony, go to this link Investiture Ceremony 10 September 2024.

    Ms Gemma New, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America, ONZM for services to music direction
    No Rights Reserved (CC0)
    King's Birthday Investitures Tuesday 10 September 2024 AM

    Contact us directly

    Read more
  • Investiture Ceremony 6 September 2024 am

    Post date:
    Friday, 6 Sep 2024
    Category:
    Feature

    Mrs Mary Lee received her insignia as a Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit this morning at Government House Wellington, for her services to snow sports and tourism. Mary and her husband, Mr John Lee, developed Cardrona Ski Field, Snow Park, and the Snow Farm – New Zealand's only dedicated cross-country ski-field – and continue to make significant, often voluntary, contributions across New Zealand's snow sports community. Ten other recipients were acknowledged this morning for their outstanding contributions across the diverse fields of racing, health, military history, meteorology, philanthropy, music, the community, sport, and defense. 

    Warmest congratulations to all of today's recipients. This round of King's Birthday Honours investiture ceremonies continue next week in Wellington.

    For more images, click here: Friday 6 September Media Gallery.

    Mrs Mary Lee, Dame Cindy Kiro
    No Rights Reserved (CC0)
    King's Birthday 2024 Investitures 6 September AM

    Contact us directly

    Read more
  • Investiture Ceremony 5 September 2024 pm

    Post date:
    Thursday, 5 Sep 2024
    Category:
    Feature

    Nine recipients were welcomed to Government House this afternoon for their investiture ceremony, including Elizabeth Cunningham, who received a KSO for services to governance. Mrs Cunningham has been heavily involved with the Māori Women’s Welfare League, helped lead Environment Canterbury’s climate change policy, and is the elective representative of Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu.

    Also among those recognised was Ligi Hetutū, who received a KSM for services to the Niuean community. She established Niue language classes on the Wellington region, chairs the Wellington Niuean Language committee and holds several roles with the Wellington Niuean Presbyterian Church. Congratulations to all this afternoon’s recipients.

    For more photos, click here: 5 September PM Investiture Media Gallery.

    Mrs Ligi Hetutū, Dame Cindy Kiro
    No Rights Reserved (CC0)
    King's Birthday 2024 Wellington Investiture 5 September PM

    Contact us directly

    Read more
  • Investiture Ceremony 5 September 2024 am

    Post date:
    Thursday, 5 Sep 2024
    Category:
    Feature

    At this morning's investiture ceremony at Government House Wellington, Dame Cindy presented the insignia of a Knight Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit to Sir Peter Beck, the founder and CEO of Rocket Lab. Since its founding in 2006, Rocket Lab has become a highly successful, award-winning business, deeply engaged with STEM education, and a widely connected and recognised leader within global aerospace. Rocket Lab employs 1,800 people globally, with 750 New Zealand employees, and has launched more than 160 satellites to orbit as of April 2024.

    Also during the ceremony, Air Marshal Kevin Short received his CNZM insignia for services to the New Zealand Defence Force, serving as Chief of Defence Force from 2018 to 2024 – a term which encompassed significant and unprecedented domestic and global events, including the Covid-19 pandemic. Our very warmest congratulations to all of this morning's recipients.

    Sir Peter Beck, of Auckland, KNZM for services to the aerospace industry, business and education
    No Rights Reserved (CC0)

    You can find more images from this morning's ceremony in the Investiture Ceremony 5 September 2024 am image gallery.

    King's Birthday Investitures 2024 5 September AM

    Contact us directly

    Read more
  • Investiture Ceremony 4 September 2024 am

    Post date:
    Wednesday, 4 Sep 2024
    Category:
    Feature

    At today’s investiture ceremony, Dame Cindy presented Dame Joan Withers with the insignia of a DNZM, for services to business, governance and woman. Dame Joan has held many senior leadership roles in the media and business industries, including Chair of The Warehouse Group and TVNZ, Director of Sky Network TV and Chief Executive of Fairfax New Zealand. She was a foundation member of Global Women – an organisation aiming to encourage and increase diversity in business senior leadership. 
    Several recipients were also recognised for their contributions to the New Zealand Police, including Inspector Freda Grace, who has served 40 years with New Zealand Police, supporting women on specialist squads such as the Armed Offenders Squad, and establishing the Critical Incident Liaison Officer programme.  Congratulations to all this morning’s recipients.

    To view images from the ceremony, go to this link Investiture Ceremony 4 September 2024.

    Dame Joan Withers, of Papakura, DNZM for services to business, governance and women
    No Rights Reserved (CC0)
    King's Birthday Wellington Investitures 4 September 2024 am

    Contact us directly

    Read more
  • Investiture Ceremony 3 September 2024 pm

    Post date:
    Tuesday, 3 Sep 2024
    Category:
    Feature

    The eleven Honours recipients at this afternoon's investiture ceremony included Michael Hollings, who became the first Royal New Zealand Honours recipient to receive the insignia for a King's Service Order (KSO), in recognition of his work  in distance education, the revitalisation of te reo Māori within the Public Service, kohanga reo and theatre.  Tere Gilbert (ONZM) was also recognised for her services to Māori language education. ONZM insignia were presented to Professor Emerita Nicola Peart  for her services to the law, and to Gordon Glentworth for his services to the livestock and dairy industries.

    To view images from the ceremony, go to this link Investiture Ceremony 3 September pm.

    Mr Michael Hollings, of Wellington, KSO for services to education and Māori
    No Rights Reserved (CC0)
    King's Birthday Wellington Investitures 3 September 2024 PM

    Contact us directly

    Read more
  • Investiture Ceremony 3 September 2024 am

    Post date:
    Tuesday, 3 Sep 2024
    Category:
    Feature

    Former senior diplomat Chris Seed (CNZM), Department of Conservation scientist Richard Coon (ONZM) and Cook Island cultural advocate Bridget Kauraka (MNZM) were among the ten recipients of Royal New Zealand Honours at an investiture ceremony at Government House this morning.  This round of ceremonies  is the first to include King's Birthday Honours,  and will see the inaugural presentation of insignia for the King's Service Order and the King's Service Medal. 

    To view images from the ceremony, go to this link Investiture Ceremony 3 September 2024 am.

    Mr Chris Seed, of Wellington, CNZM for services to the State
    No Rights Reserved (CC0)
    King's Birthday 2024 Wellington Investiture 3 September 2024 AM

    Contact us directly

    Read more
  • The Governor-General's statement on the death of Kiingi Tuheitia Pootatau Te Wherowhero VII

    Post date:
    Friday, 30 Aug 2024
    Category:
    Feature

    Following the death of Kiingi Tuheitia Pootatau Te Wherowhero VII, Dame Cindy Kiro released the following statement:

    Dame Cindy Kiro's statement on the death of Kiingi Tuheitia

     

     His Majesty King Charles III also offered a message of condolence to the people of Aotearoa New Zealand, following the death of Kiingi Tuheitia.

    "My wife and I were profoundly saddened to learn of the death of Kiingi Tuheitia.

    I had the greatest pleasure of knowing Kiingi Tuheitia for decades.  He was deeply committed to forging a strong future for Māori and Aotearoa New Zealand founded upon culture, traditions and healing, which he carried out with wisdom and compassion.

    I remember with immense fondness meeting Kiingi Tuheitia many times, including when Her Majesty and I were hosted so warmly and graciously at the Tuurangawaewae Marae in 2015, and then again during our meeting at Buckingham Palace last year.  His death is a particular shock in view of the fact that I had only very recently spoken to Kiingi on the telephone at the beginning of August.

    Kua hinga te tōtara i Te Waonui a Tāne.  (A mighty Totora tree has fallen.)

    My wife and I extend our deepest condolences to Kiingi Tuheitia’s whaanau and friends and all those who will mourn his loss.  Our special thoughts and prayers will be with you at this most difficult and heartbreaking of times."

    Charles R

     

    Contact us directly

    Read more
  • Garden to Table Luncheon at Government House

    Post date:
    Thursday, 29 Aug 2024
    Category:
    Feature

    Dr Davies hosted a very special lunch in the Government House ballroom today, with the manaakitanga coming from local Wellington tamariki participating in the Garden to Table school programme. First, the children learned of the importance of pollinators, before visiting the Government House garden to harvest some vegetables. Next, the students showed their skills working alongside the Government House chefs and the front of house team, experimenting with salads and galettes, and discovering the art (and maths!) of table settings. Once the kai was ready and the ballroom was prepared, Dr Davies joined the tamariki for a delicious, seasonal lunch. 
    For 15 years, Garden to Table has been working with schools across Aotearoa to educate thousands of students about how to grow, harvest, prepare and share healthy kai. Last year, their students prepared over one million vegetable-based meals. 

    For more photos, click here: Garden to Table Luncheon media gallery.

    Chef Sepi adorning a new chef with a new hat
    No Rights Reserved (CC0)

    Contact us directly

    Read more
  • 2024 Royal Humane Society Silver Medal Presentation

    Post date:
    Wednesday, 28 Aug 2024
    Category:
    Feature

    Dame Cindy and Dr Davies had the honour of welcoming the 2024 recipients of the Royal Humane Society Silver Medals, which recognise each of their exceptional acts of bravery. Matt Atkins, Jeremy Lee, Constable Bruce Whitley, father and son Tim and Matt Dodge, and Senior Constable Kurt Waugh were recognised today for their efforts to rescue others in life-threatening situations, despite the considerable risk to their own safety. The Royal Humane Society of New Zealand has been recognising the acts of bravery of people – like today’s recipients – for 126 years. He toa taumata rau. Bravery has many resting places.

    For more pictures, click here: Royal Humane Society Silver Medal media gallery.

    Dame Cindy with Matt Atkins
    No Rights Reserved (CC0)

    Contact us directly

    Read more
  • Child Cancer Foundation Life Membership and Star Awards 2024

    Post date:
    Thursday, 22 Aug 2024
    Category:
    Feature

    Today, Dame Cindy and Dr Davies welcomed the recipients of the Child Cancer Foundation's Life Membership and Star Awards to Government House Auckland, for a very special ceremony to recognise their outstanding involvement with the Child Cancer Foundation. Barbara Richardson, Christine Donovan, Raewyn Sawyers, and Sue Green were honoured for their years of contributions to the Foundation, helping support children and their families through a cancer diagnosis. Mae, William, Maggie and Roman were the inspirational recipients of the Star Awards. These awards reflect the bravery each child has shown when they shared their own cancer stories to raise awareness and help other children like them affected by cancer. The ceremony also recognised the Rongotea Lions, who were awarded regional and national Lions Kindness awards, and who have been nominated for the World Lions Kindness award.

    For more photos, click here: Child Cancer Awards 2024 media gallery.

    Official Party
    No Rights Reserved (CC0)

    Contact us directly

    Read more
  • Antarctic Heritage Trust launch of Scott’s Discovery Hut Virtual Reality Experience

    Post date:
    Friday, 16 Aug 2024
    Category:
    Feature
    Last night at Government House Wellington, Dame Cindy had the pleasure of launching Antarctic Heritage Trust's new educational virtual reality experience of Captain Robert Falcon Scott’s Discovery Hut. Through the use of a VR headset and controllers, participants in the experience will be able to come face-to-face with penguins, take a ride in a hydrogen balloon, and explore inside the hut itself.
     
    Scott's Discovery Hut is significant in that it was the first expedition base built on Antarctica’s Ross Island, during Captain Scott's National Antarctic Expedition of 1901-1904. This special experience, developed by StaplesVR, will now be taken to schools and communities across Aotearoa, so they too can step into the shoes of Scott and his team, and be inspired by the spirit of exploration and courage they so outstandingly embodied.
     
    Aliesha Staples, Staples VR, Francesca Eathorne, Executive Director of the Antarctic Heritage Trust, Dame Cindy, Dr Davies, and Mark Stewart, Board Chair of the Antarctic Heritage Trust
    No Rights Reserved (CC0)
    You can find more images from the event in the Antarctic Heritage Trust launch of Scott’s Discovery Hut Virtual Reality Experience image gallery and read Dame Cindy's speech in Her Excellency's speech at the Antarctic Heritage Trust launch of Scott’s Discovery Hut Virtual Reality Experience.

    Contact us directly

    Read more
  • Credential Ceremonies August 2024

    Post date:
    Thursday, 15 Aug 2024
    Category:
    Feature

    This morning Dame Cindy received the credentials of five diplomatic representatives: HE Mr Johnny Sexwale, High Commissioner of the Republic of South Africa; HE Mr Hadera Abera, Ambassador of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia; HE Mr Sidya El Hadj; Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Mauritania; HE Dr Abu Bakarr Karim, High Commissioner of the Republic of Sierra Leone; and HE Mr Ali Saad Mohamed Habab Al-Hajri, Ambassador of the State of Qatar. 

    To view images, go to this link Credential Ceremony 14 August 2024

    HE Mr Ali Saad Mohamed Habab Al-Hajri, Ambassador of the State of Qatar,  1.	Mr Abdulaziz Khalid S.E Al-Nasr, and Their Excellencies
    No Rights Reserved (CC0)

    Contact us directly

    Read more
  • Royal Commission of Inquiry into Abuse in Care Survivor Event

    Post date:
    Wednesday, 14 Aug 2024
    Category:
    Feature

    This afternoon at Government House, Dame Cindy gave a warm welcome to people who were involved in the Royal Commission of Inquiry into Abuse in Care. During six years of hearings, 2,797 people shared their experiences and insights about abuse in care in Aotearoa, and the final report was presented to Dame Cindy last month. Today Dame Cindy thanked the survivors for putting their trust in the Commission. She noted that she had spent much of her career as an advocate for the wellbeing of children and young people, and so the kaupapa of the Commission was close to her heart. The arts as a means of expression were highlighted with a performance by Fa'amoana Luafutu and a display of art from Te Roopu Toiora, a survivors' arts collective.

    To read Dame Cindy's speech, go to this link  Royal Commission of Inquiry into Abuse in Care Survivor Event

    To see images from the afternoon, go to this link Royal Commission of Inquiry into Abuse in Care Survivor Event

    Dame Cindy with Commissioner Judge Coral Shaw and Paul Zentveld
    No Rights Reserved (CC0)

    Contact us directly

    Read more
  • His Majesty King Charles III sends a message to the New Zealand Olympic Team

    Post date:
    Tuesday, 13 Aug 2024
    Category:
    Feature

    His Majesty King Charles III offers his congratulations to the New Zealand Olympic Team following their outstanding success at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games.

    King Charles III message to the New Zealand Olympic Team

    Contact us directly

    Read more
  • Hākari Fusion

    Post date:
    Monday, 12 Aug 2024
    Category:
    Feature

    In what was a truly special event on Saturday, Dame Cindy and Dr Davies welcomed guests to Government House for Hākari Fusion, a Wellington on a Plate event celebrating Aotearoa’s oldest form of cooking – the hāngī. Hāngī Master Rewi Spraggon joined the Government House chefs to create a feast cooked in the House’s new permanent hāngī pit, which combined traditional and modern cooking techniques. The evening was filled with music, waiata and kapa haka, and showcased local kai that included plants grown on the grounds. The event was free to the public, with 180 lucky guests selected from a ballot, becoming the first of many to enjoy hāngī cooked on site at Government House Wellington.

    For more photos, click here: Hākari Fusion media gallery. 

    The chefs begin lifting the hāngī
    No Rights Reserved (CC0)

    Contact us directly

    Read more
  • State Banquet for the President of India

    Post date:
    Friday, 9 Aug 2024
    Category:
    Feature

    Last night, Dame Cindy and Dr Davies hosted The Honourable Droupadi Murmu, President of India, and her delegation for a very special State Banquet at Government House Wellington. The menu included food lifted from the newly-built Government House hāngi – and the evening provided an opportunity to reinforce the strong bond of friendship between New Zealand and India, as well as to celebrate the diverse contributions of New Zealand's Indian communities.

    The official party

    © Department of Internal Affairs. Photograph by Mark Tantrum.

    © Crown Copyright, Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0)

    You can find more images from the event in the image gallery for the State Banquet for the President of India.

    Contact us directly

    Read more
  • Ceremony of Welcome for the President of India

    Post date:
    Thursday, 8 Aug 2024
    Category:
    Feature

    Dame Cindy and Dr Davies hosted a State Ceremony of Welcome this morning for The Honourable Droupadi Murmu, President of India. President Murmu is in Aotearoa New Zealand for three days as part of a wider visit to the Pacific and Southeast Asia. President Murmu is the 15th President of India, and is the second woman to be elected to this role. Today’s Ceremony of Welcome was supported by the New Zealand Army, the Royal New Zealand Air Force Band and the New Zealand Defence Force Cultural group. We wish President Murmu all the very best during her time in New Zealand.


    For more photos, click here: Ceremony of Welcome for the President of India.

    President Murmu inspects the Guard of Honour
    No Rights Reserved (CC0)

    Contact us directly

    Read more
  • Dame Cindy and Dr Davies attend the Paris 2024 Olympic Games

    Post date:
    Friday, 2 Aug 2024
    Category:
    Feature
    Outside the Olympic Village
    Copyright Held by Non-Crown Party

    As patron of the New Zealand Olympic Committee, and as the New Zealand team’s chief cheerleader, Dame Cindy is in Paris with Dr Davies to support the 200-strong team of Aotearoa’s athletes competing at the 2024 Olympic Games. This marks 100 years since the last time the Olympics were held in Paris, which coincidentally is where Sir Arthur Porritt, our only Governor-General who was also an Olympian, won bronze in the 100m sprint.

    Dame Cindy with Jo Aleh, Nigel Avery and Tā Derek Lardeli
    Copyright Held by Non-Crown Party

    Dame Cindy and Dr Davies were welcomed to the New Zealand team base for a ceremony to name the Te Pou Hāpai (flag bearers) to lead our team down the Seine River during the opening ceremony, followed by a reception hosted by President Macron for Heads of State and Government. The flag bearers wear a kākahu each – Te Māhutonga and Te Hono ki Matariki – the creation of which was led by master weaver Ranui Ngarimu. As a special connection, Ranui is both the New Zealand Olympic Committee’s kuia, and is one of Dame Cindy’s kuia.

    Once the games began, Their Excellencies have been cheering on the team at the many historic locations the games are being held, including equestrian eventing at the Château de Versailles, and tennis at Roland-Garros. NZOC Chef de Mission Nigel Avery gave Their Excellencies a tour of the New Zealand base at the Olympic Village, where athletes live, train and recover during the Olympic Games. Dame Cindy and Dr Davies ended their time supporting our Olympians in the best way possible, watching our mighty Black Ferns win NZ’s first medal – a back-to-back Olympic gold medal in front of 66,000 people in Stade de France, and celebrating the triathlon team’s success after their race.

    For more photos, click here: Paris Olympics 2024 media gallery.

    Contact us directly

    Read more
  • Farewell call from the Ambassador of the Republic of Poland

    Post date:
    Monday, 15 Jul 2024
    Category:
    Feature

    This afternoon Dame Cindy received a farewell call from His Excellency Mr Grzegorz Kowal, the departing Ambassador of the Republic of Poland. We congratulate His Excellency on the success of his posting, and wish him and his family all the very best for the future.

    His Excellency Mr Grzegorz Kowal, the departing Ambassador of the Republic of Poland, and Dame Cindy
    No Rights Reserved (CC0)

    Contact us directly

    Read more
  • Official New Zealand portraits of His Majesty King Charles III and Her Majesty Queen Camilla released

    Post date:
    Monday, 15 Jul 2024
    Category:
    Feature
    NZ Portrait Their Majesties King Charles III and Queen Camilla 2024
    Terms of Use Apply, Photograph by Millie Pilkington

    New official portraits have been released of His Majesty King Charles III and Her Majesty Queen Camilla, wearing their New Zealand Royal Honours. The portraits were taken in the White Drawing Room at Buckingham Palace in June.

    His Majesty the King is wearing the Badge of the Sovereign of the Order of New Zealand (ONZ) suspended around his neck. The Order of New Zealand, instituted in 1987, is New Zealand’s most senior Royal Honour. On the left side of His Majesty’s jacket, the King wears the Star of a Knight Grand Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit (GNZM). The New Zealand Order of Merit, a distinctive New Zealand Order of Chivalry of which the King is Sovereign, was instituted in 1996.  Above the Star, His Majesty wears a set of insignia which includes the Badge of a Companion of the Queen’s Service Order (QSO); the New Zealand 1990 Commemoration Medal; and the New Zealand Armed Forces Award. As Prince of Wales, His Majesty was appointed as an Extra Companion of the Queen’s Service Order in 1983.

    Her Majesty the Queen wears the Badge of an Additional Member of the Order of New Zealand. Her Majesty’s appointment to the Order was announced on the King’s Birthday and Coronation Honours List 2023.

    The portraits were taken by photographer Millie Pilkington, whose previous work includes wedding photography for the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge.

    The photographs are available here and can be downloaded in accordance with the terms of use.

    Terms of use

    The photographs may be downloaded free of charge for non-commercial use by:

    • New Zealand government agencies
    • the public
    • the media for editorial use in the Commonwealth Realms,

    provided that each publication is accompanied by the credit “Photograph by Millie Pilkington 2024”. Please direct any questions to [email protected]

    Contact us directly

    Read more
  • Mission to Seafarers 125th Anniversary dinner

    Post date:
    Thursday, 11 Jul 2024
    Category:
    Feature
    As their patron, Dr Davies welcomed Mission to Seafarers Oceania to Government House this evening to celebrate the charitable organisation’s 125th anniversary of active service. The Mission to Seafarers Oceania is part of an international network of Missions, found in over 200 ports around the world, helping hundreds of thousands of seafarers each year. The support they provide includes welfare checks during ship visits, giving spiritual guidance, providing a space to relax off ship, and gifting a whole heap of knitting. In his speech, Dr Davies reflected on his own experiences as a seafarer – visiting the Auckland Mission was his first welcome to New Zealand back in the early 80s.
    The Mission’s global president, HRH The Princess Royal, provided a congratulatory message for the evening, noting her visit to the Wellington Mission last year.
     
    For more photos, click here: Mission to Seafarers 125th Anniversary media gallery.
    Presenting the Princess Royal's message to Rev Lance Lukin
    No Rights Reserved (CC0)

    Contact us directly

    Read more
  • First page First
  • Previous page Previous
  • …
  • Page 2
  • Page 3
  • Current page 4
  • Page 5
  • Page 6
  • Page 7
  • …
  • Next page Next
  • Last page Last
Sidebar anchor

Getting to know Dame Cindy

The Rt Hon Dame Cindy Kiro
  • Biography of The Rt Hon Dame Cindy Kiro, GNZM, QSO
  • Visit the Governor-General's blog

Stay connected

To stay connected follow us on Twitter and Instagram or like us on Facebook. 

  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • Instagram

Invite the Governor-General to your event

Each year, the Governor-General attends special events, ceremonies and celebrations across the country.

Find out more about the Governor-General attending your event

Content wrapper

Help us improve the Governor-General website

Your feedback is very important in helping us improve the the Governor-General website.


More menu anchor

Back to top

The Governor-General
  • Biography of The Rt Hon Dame Cindy Kiro, GNZM, QSO
  • Biography of Dr Richard Davies
  • Media statements
  • Speeches by The Rt Hon Dame Cindy Kiro
  • The Governor-General's blog
Office of the Governor-General
  • Coronation of King Charles III and Queen Camilla
  • Roles and functions of the Governor-General
  • Conditions of Appointment
  • History
  • Invitations, patronage and cards
  • Contacting the Governor-General
  • Official portraits
  • Royal Commission Reports
Government House
  • Government House Wellington
  • Government House Auckland
  • Other Government Houses
  • Staff at Government House
  • Tours
News and events
  • News archive
Publications
  • Publications archive
  • Historical essays
  • Media statements
  • Speeches
  • Image galleries
  • Image search

© Crown copyright: Government House, Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet

  • Contact us
  • Copyright and licensing
  • Privacy
  • Site map
New Zealand Government