For images from this visit, click here.
“I intend to give support and encouragement to Cantabrians during my five years as Governor-General. This visit marks the beginning of that, and represents my continued commitment to the region, its people and the rebuilding of Christchurch,” said Sir Jerry Mateparae.
Sir Jerry and Lady Janine begin their three day visit on Tuesday 4 October, by laying a wreath at the Bridge of Remembrance, in recognition of the 181 lives lost. Their visit will include meeting with the Kaiapoi Councillors, Community Board and Residents Association, a visit to Kaiapoi High School, a visit to the Eastern Suburbs and Habitat for Humanity.
Sir Jerry will also attend a community organisation round table at the New Brighton Police Station and assist with the presentation of Sub Area Commander’s Commendations from the New Zealand Police to representatives from the Community Groups involved in post-earthquake assistance.
Full Programme:
Tuesday 4 October
10:10am Sir Jerry and Lady Janine are shown the scope of the damage in the central city and surrounding suburbs via helicopter No Media
11:30am Sir Jerry and Lady Janine lay a wreath at the Bridge of Remembrance in recognition of the 181 lives lost on 22 February 2011. No Media – for a photograph from this event, please email a request to [email protected]
1:00pm Visit to the Burwood Hospital Rehabilitation Unit to meet patients and staff No Media
3.30pm Visit to the Royal New Zealand Foundation of the Blind, Deaf Aotearoa and Relationship Services shared offices, 96 Bristol Street, St. Albans, Christchurch
6:30pm Dinner with Waimakariri, and Selwyn Districts Mayors, Chief Executive of CERA, and other Emergency Service heads. No media
Wednesday 5 October
8:00am Breakfast with the Kaiapoi Councillors and Community Board to discuss the community impact of the earthquakes No media
9:00am Walkabout in Kaiapoi with the Residents Association
10:30am Morning Tea and Walkabout at Kairaki Pines Beach with the Residents Association
11:30am Briefing about the Kaiapoi Community Housing initiative
12:00pm Sir Jerry and Lady Janine host lunch for community representatives in Kaiapoi No media
1.45pm Visit to Kaiapoi High School
3:15pm Afternoon Tea with Community Social Service Groups
4:30pm Tour of the Kaiapoi Earthquake Services Hub to meet staff
Friday 7 October
9:00am Community Meeting at the New Brighton Police Station where Sir Jerry will present certificates of commendation to community organisations involved in the earthquake response.
11.00am Sir Jerry is shown earthquake damage of the eastern suburbs, Redcliffs and Sumner via helicopter No media
11:30am Walkabout in Redcliffs to see damage from the ground and meet local residents
4.00pm Visit to the Restart the Heart project in Cashel Mall (TBC)
For more information please contact Rebekah Clement, Public Affairs Advisor, Government House on 021-243-7958.