A new website exhibition launched today invites New Zealanders to share their memories of the Queen’s past visits to this country. The exhibition has been prepared by the Ministry for Culture and Heritage for its New Zealand history site, www.nzhistory.net.nz. It marks the Queen’s 10th visit, which is scheduled to begin on 22 February.

Jock Phillips, Chief Historian at the Ministry, said that the exhibition uses photos, films and excerpts from radio broadcasts to portray the first visit by the Queen in 1953 – 54.

‘There are very few New Zealanders over the age of 55 who do not remember the day when they saw the Queen,’ Dr Phillips said. ‘The first royal visit was one of the great events of the 1950s in New Zealand, and the Queen’s visit this year offers an opportunity to recall a very different age.’

The Ministry is keen to receive interesting and amusing stories relating to the Queen’s earlier visits. It is particularly interested in stories about the 1953 – 54 visit, but also welcomes recollections about other visits the Queen has made to this country.

Excerpts from many of the stories will be presented on the website. All those whose reminiscences are posted will receive a free copy of Dr Phillip’s book Royal Summer.

Stories should be reasonably brief, and can be sent in via the website, by email to jamie.mackay@mch.govt.nz, or by post to the Ministry for Culture and Heritage, PO Box 5364, Wellington.

ENDS

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