While New Zealand’s Governor-General changed in August 2011, one thing remained a constant—both were members of the same Rotary club.
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| Sir Anand Satyanand |
The Rt Hon Sir Anand Satyanand completed his five year term as Governor-General of New Zealand on 23 August 2011 and on 31 August his successor, Lt Gen The Rt Hon Sir Jerry Mateparae, was sworn in as New Zealand’s 20th Governor-General. Sir Jerry is a former Chief of the New Zealand Defence Force and Chief of the New Zealand Army.
Both had been long-time members of the District 9940 Rotary Club of Wellington, and indeed Sir Anand was President Elect when he was appointed as Governor-General in 2006. Sir Anand came to the role of Governor-General, having previously served as a lawyer, judge and ombudsman.
In his farewell speech at a state luncheon at Parliament, Sir Anand spoke of the many of highlights he and Lady Susan shared while representing the Queen of New Zealand.
“Our most abiding memories will not be of places, but of the people of New Zealand, and their positive spirit and determination. In schools, businesses, marae, awards ceremonies and festivals, we have met, talked to and shared experiences with many New Zealanders and many communities, and have enjoyed time and again the many qualities that make our country and its people special – good-hearted concern for others, practical can-do attitudes, very often accompanied by good humour.
“The collective strength of New Zealanders has been amply illustrated in the aftermath of the disasters and tragedies in Canterbury and Christchurch and at Pike River, and the loss of several lives in the New Zealand Defence Force. “
Sir Anand said serving as Governor-General gave him the opportunity to recognise the contributions that New Zealanders make.
“Investing the first Victoria Cross for New Zealand and Anzac of the Year are examples of military contributions, and over the past five years we have been privileged to celebrate more than 2000 investitures to say "thank you" to people who have given outstanding service to the nation or to humanity– whether through voluntary community work or for professional and business contributions.”
Sir Anand said he and Lady Susan had also had the privilege, at the request of the Government, to represent New Zealanders’ interests abroad.
“In this capacity we have visited Singapore, Timor Lesté, Papua New Guinea, and the Solomon Islands, and further afield Mongolia, India and Canada. In each of those three countries we made the first visit by a New Zealand Governor-General. We also had the wonderful opportunity of supporting New Zealand competitors in the Olympics at Beijing and the Commonwealth Games at New Delhi.”
Sir Anand said visiting India was special for many reasons. “To return as representative of the Head of State to the land which my grandparents had left more than a century ago was personally meaningful, but I think we can all reflect on the fact that New Zealand is a nation where anyone, regardless of their background, can achieve if they are prepared to work and contribute. “
Sir Anand said the closure of Government House in Wellington in late 2008 provided an unparalleled opportunity to connect with people in many regions.
“We held investiture ceremonies in a variety of places from Christchurch and Dunedin through to a notable event in the public bar of the Duke of Marlborough Hotel in Russell. At the end of the 30 month Conservation Project, we believe that the refurbished and strengthened House is a national treasure, and that everyone involved in the project can take pride in a job well done.”
In addition to thanking the Prime Minister, Leader of the Opposition, and the staff at Government House, Sir Anand paid special tribute to Lady Susan’s contribution.
“When we decided to take on this role, we agreed we would do it together; wherever possible we have done just that. Susan has however, been much more than a congenial supporter. I have constantly relied on her advice and feedback. She has also actively extended the Governor-General’s role by promoting three themes: children, initiatives to enhance the environment, and volunteering. “
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| Sir Jerry Mateparae |
- By Antony Paltridge, Public Affairs Manager, Government House
