1 November 2007

Open Day at Parliament on Sunday 4 November

The public is invited to look behind the scenes at Parliament during a special Open Day on Sunday 4 November.

The Speaker, Hon Margaret Wilson, said today that Parliament and Parliament Buildings belong to the people.

‘We are throwing open the doors and inviting anyone who is interested to come and have a good look around.

‘People may have seen Parliament on television - either on the news or during the official broadcast of Parliament – but many have never visited in person. Now’s the chance to come along and see where your MP sits.

‘You can also admire the beautiful historical buildings that make up the Parliamentary complex,” Ms Wilson said.

‘At previous Open Days we’ve heard of people living in the Capital and in the surrounding regions who have never been to Parliament.

‘If you are one of those people, come along on Sunday and do your own self-paced, self-guided tour around Parliament.’

The Open Day provides the opportunity to go inside the debating chamber and select committee meeting rooms and view displays of historical furniture, Parliamentary memorabilia, architecture and artworks.

Areas not normally available to the public will be open – including the Beehive Theatrette where the Prime Minister holds her media briefings, the Beehive café and an MP’s office.

Special talks will be delivered in the Beehive Theatrette covering the devastating 1907 Parliamentary fire, women in Parliament, the impact of MMP and the shift from Colony to Dominion 100 years ago.

Parliament’s Open Day starts at 10am Sunday 4 November with last entry at 3.30pm. Entry is free.

ENDS

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