NZ Federation of Women's Institute's new offices
To: Mrs Eleanor Holt, the National President of the New Zealand Federation of Women's Institutes and the Executive; the Hon Steve Chadwick, Minister of Women's Affairs, distinguished Guests, ladies and gentlemen, my greetings to you all: Greetings, Kia Ora, Kia Orana, Fakalofa Lahi Atu,Taloha Ni and, as it is evening, (sign) 'good evening'.
It is said that moving house is one of the most stressful events in our lives - and I am sure it is the same for organisations as well for individuals and for families.
So I'd like to begin by congratulating you on your successful move to your new offices.
I know that a lot of hard work - and hard decision-making - has gone into getting to this opening day.
But taking change in stride is something that New Zealand women are particularly good at.
From this new and lofty vantage point in the capital city of this blessed country, the members will get a new view. You are grounded in a solid past, fostered by friendships that are mature and deep. You maintain your links throughout New Zealand and the world. In the light of the Strategic Plan, by which you will be ever more inclusive and relevant, your members will surely grow.
As the French say, "Plus ca change, plus la meme chose". The more things change, the more they stay the same.
Women of all ages are active in so many ways in our country. I believe that those who provide the steady warmth and security in their home are undervalued in this era. It is true that in New Zealand we have shown what women 'at the top' can do. I believe that in the NZ Federation of Women's Institutes we haven't lost the knowledge how to support families.
As the wife of the Governor-General, the Hon Anand Satyanand, I was asked to be the patron of a number of organisations. I am very proud to be the patron of the NZ Federation of Women's Institutes and it has been most enjoyable to meet such positive women.
After your September meeting, I was delighted that you came to Government House to share the daffodils in full bloom. The treasured and beautiful chairs whose tapestry seats and backs were embroidered by Women's Institute members up and down New Zealand in the fifties were also something we were all happy to remember and admire on that morning. They always remind me of another tangible link.
For all these reasons, it is with great pleasure and real warmth that I now declare the new national office of the New Zealand Federation of Women's Institutes open.
I wish you all the best for your future here - and throughout the country. No reira, tena koutou, tena koutou, kia ora, kia kaha, tena koutou katoa.