JUNE
Natural History Museum
New Zealand Society members were invited to attend a cheque presentation
by the Society to the Natural History Museum to be used in the
preservation of works by the Reverend Laishley (see book with pencil
drawing right)
Chris Mills of the Natural History Museum proved to be a convivial host,
welcoming guests to a pre-viewing drink in the Museum library and then
on to the rare books room (sans drinks!) where he explained what work
was required and allowed members to view the work.
President Annette then presented the cheque and extracted a promise we
would be invited back to view the completed project some time in the
future. We'll keep you informed on the project's progress
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JUNE
Havengore BoatMembers were privileged to
enjoy a rare visit to the Havengore Boat which served as Churchill's
funeral barge.
New Zealander Owen Marshall has restored the barge which now serves as
the base for HELM youth education programme.
As well as enjoying the historical significance of the vessel, members
were entertained by Owen's tale of how the boat came to be restored
which included haggling with Ted Heath over its mooring spot and
negotiating with the holders of Churchill's papers copyright (Facsimiles
of Churchill's papers are made available to HELM)
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July
Marlborough House: In a unique opportunity open
to Member's Only we were invited to tour Marlborough House the home of
the Commonwealth offices in London.
Former New Zealander of the Year Don McKinnon extended the invitation
and he spoke to the small group who attended about his role as
Commonwealth Secretary General. For more information on
Marlborough House and the Commonwealth follow the link.
Kew Gardens: Our annual guided walk at Kew grows in popularity
each year. We also enjoyed the colourful glass sculptures by Chihuly
amongst the New Zealand vegetation during our fourth annual visit to Kew
Gardens.
After a tour of ferns to flaxes and New Zealand native woods and
paintings we dried off from an unexpected rain shower over lunch. Due to
the popularity of this tour we are keen to recruit two volunteer guides
to share their knowledge of New Zealand plants. Email usif this sounds
like you!
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October
Wine TastingCommittee member Margaret
Walter came up with the suggestion of using 30/50 for our next wine
tasting and the result was a fast paced, fun and informative evening.
Chris from 30/50 took us through our paces and there was some "friendly"
rivalry as teams competed in quick fire questions on the wines tasted.
Although it would not be everyone's natural reaction to try to hold
their nose then gargle New Zealand wine, Chris did a great job of
convincing us to try it!
By the end of the night we all knew a little more about New Zealand wine
(although it was anyone's guess who won the quiz!)
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