Notes for reception guests
The Main Gate will open at 3.45pm. Guests are requested to arrive at Government House, Wellington via the Main Gate and proceed to the Terrace by 4.30pm before gates close and formalities begin.
The Main Gate of Government House is adjacent to the southeast corner of the Basin Reserve at 1 Rugby Street. See map below.
There is no parking available on the grounds of Government House. Guests are encouraged to use public transport to and from the event.
There will be a designated drop off point for taxis and private cars located close to the entrance of the reception.
After the event has concluded there will be a taxi stand on site. Private cars will be able re-enter through the main gate to pick up guests.
Please bring your invitation card and valid photo ID to enter the grounds.
The reception will conclude at 6.30pm.
It is a 10 minute walk from the main gate up a sloped driveway to reach the event. If you require any mobility assistance, or have any other personal needs for this function, please advise us as soon as possible
Smoking is not permitted in the grounds or buildings of Government House.
All personal items will need to be carried as there is no coat check.
Please note invitations are not transferable.
Dress code
Dress code is day wear. No jeans, jandals or shorts please.
Uniforms (e.g. Police, Fire Service, Scouts, Guides, St John), and cultural dress may also be worn.
Guests may wear medals and other decorations.
We support sun safe practices and hats are encouraged.
Protocol points to note
Introductions to Their Excellencies will be facilitated in small groups by Government House staff where possible.
On presentation to The Governor-General, the correct formal address is “Your Excellency”, followed by “Ma’am” (as in jam) in later conversation.
For Sir David Gascoigne, the first address is “Your Excellency”, followed by “Sir” in later conversation.
Media and photography
Guests are allowed to take photgraphs during the event.
Official Government House photographs will be posted on this website after the reception. These are free for you to download
The social media hastag for this event is #Govthousenz.
Please note media may be present at the reception. If you have any concerns about being filmed or photographed, please contact Government House.
Cancellation
Cancellation of the Waitangi Day garden reception will only occur in extremely adverse weather conditions, and there will be no provision for it to be held on an alternative day. In this event, Government House accepts no responsibility for costs incurred relating to travel or accommodation.
In the event of a cancellation, updates will be posted on this website and on the Governor-General's Facebook, Instagram and Twitter accounts
