7 November 2005

Governor-General thanks retiring Usher of the Black Rod

Colonel William (Bill) Nathan, OBE, ED, has retired from the position of the Usher of the Black Rod. Colonel Nathan of Te Atiawa-Pipitea, Ngati Kahungunu and Ngai Tahu was appointed to the position in 1993, and has served as Black Rod and an Honorary Officer of the Governor-General's household under three Governors-General, Dame Catherine Tizard, Sir Michael Hardie Boys and Dame Silvia Cartwright.

Dame Silvia has thanked Colonel Nathan warmly for his dedicated service to her and her predecessors over the last 12 years. She has very much appreciated the dedication and dignity he has brought to the role of Black Rod and to ceremonial events, including the presentation of credentials and investitures at Government House.

Mr David Baguley, Director of the Honours Secretariat in the Cabinet Office, will act as Black Rod on a temporary basis until a new appointment is made.

ENDS

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