26 February 2014

Media Advisory

Government House to be opened to the public.

The Governor-General of New Zealand, Lt Gen The Rt Hon Sir Jerry Mateparae, and Lady Janine Mateparae, will open Government House to the public on Friday 28 February and Saturday 1 March, 2014.

The Open Days will give the public a rare insight into the House and the important part it plays in the Governor-General’s constitutional, ceremonial and community leadership roles. It is a venue for many ceremonies, including investitures, State welcomes and State dinners for visiting Heads of State, credentials ceremonies for new ambassadors to New Zealand, and the swearing in of Cabinet Ministers.

A display of autographs of previous Governors and Governors-General is expected to attract plenty of interest. The collection, which is on loan to the House, includes the signatures of New Zealand’s earliest Governors, Captain William Hobson and Captain Robert Fitzroy. Other displays include New Zealand medals and a selection of historic items presented to the House by foreign Heads of State.

This is the third time Government House has held Open Days. The public will have the opportunity to view the House and grounds and there will be entertainment at various times on Saturday. Members of the public will be welcome to picnic on the grounds.

Thousands of people visit Government House every year through events and ceremonies hosted by the Governor-General. Those events include functions to support community groups, particularly the many charitable organisations of which Sir Jerry Mateparae and Lady Janine are patrons.

ENDS

Government House Open Days

Friday 28 February and Saturday 1 March, 2014.

Gates open at 10am. Last entry to the House 4pm.

More information on Government House can be found at www.gg.govt.nz.

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