Royal Visit

Her Royal Highness, Princess Anne, visited the Wellington Cathedral of Saint Paul on Thursday 16 February 2023 for the unveiling of the stone commemorating the Mission to Seafarers and the Merchant Navy.

The Mission to Seafarers is a charity that provides practical and emotional support to seafarers who are far from home and facing difficulties. The Wellington Cathedral of Saint Paul has been a long-time supporter of the Mission, and the unveiling of the commemorative stone is a testament to their ongoing commitment.

During the Princess's visit, she met with representatives of the Mission to Seafarers (including Chaplain Rev. Lance Lukin) and the Merchant Navy, the Maritime Archaeological Association, Ōtaki College, Pipitea Marae, as well as members of the Cathedral community. Her Royal Highness took the time to speak with individuals and hear their stories, demonstrating her commitment to charitable work.

The Princess's visit coincided with the Red Cross hosting a refugee orientation in the Loaves and Fishes, highlighting the ongoing work of various charities in the community.

In the midst of a week marked by the devastation of Cyclone Gabrielle, the Princess's visit provided a sense of hope and encouragement to the community. It demonstrated that even in the face of difficulty and suffering, there are individuals and organisations committed to making a positive difference in the world, and it highlighted the importance of compassion, hospitality, and faith in making a positive impact on the world.

Princess Anne was presented with a New Zealand Prayer Book to take back to the United Kingdom, and she and her husband, Vice Admiral Sir Timothy Laurence, both signed a prayer book, which now rests in the display cabinet next to the prayer book signed by Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh.