2 March 2012
Media Release
Governor-General’s Residence to be opened to the public

The Governor-General of New Zealand, Lt Gen The Rt Hon Sir Jerry Mateparae, and Lady Janine Mateparae, are to open their home, Government House Wellington, to the public on the weekend of 17 and 18 March to celebrate the Diamond Jubilee of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, Queen of New Zealand.

On the back of an extremely popular Open Weekend in April last year, Government House Wellington will open its doors to the public for the second time, following the completion of its conservation last year.

The Open Days will feature entertainment on the North Lawn, and members of the public are welcome to picnic on the grounds.

“We are looking forward to welcoming New Zealanders back into Government House. This is the first time it has happened in our term and it will not be the last.” Sir Jerry Mateparae said.

The Open Days (17 & 18 March, 10am-4pm - last entry to House) will give the public a rare insight into the House which plays an important part 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.

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 more than many charitable organisations of which Sir Jerry Mateparae and Lady Janine are patrons.

For more information on the Government House Open Days, please visit www.gg.govt.nz.

ENDS

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