The monarchy has been an important part of the New Zealand national family for almost two centuries. For many generations the royal family have been with us through the good times and bad. In times of triumph they have celebrated with us, sending messages, making visits and holding receptions. In times of tragedy they have offered condolences, donated to recovery efforts and drawn the attention of the world to the unfolding events.

In some countries the monarchy is associated with the rose and thistle, but in New Zealand it is associated with the silver fern and the mānuka flower, as can be seen in the insignia of the New Zealand Royal Honours system. Beyond these symbols there are few other places in the world where members of the royal family can be as informal and as accessible to the public as they are here in New Zealand. The monarchy in New Zealand is a modern, multicultural institution woven into the fabric of the country.

In her role as the Queen of New Zealand, Queen Elizabeth serves as the embodiment of the nation. She has taken this role very seriously and has worked to ensure that she represents all New Zealanders, regardless of their age, ethnicity or political affiliation. In New Zealand the Queen represents the Crown, one partner in te Tiriti o Waitangi, New Zealand’s founding document. It is a unique role and one whose importance should not be overlooked. The Queen’s great-great-grandmother, Queen Victoria, lent her name to the Treaty of Waitangi more than 180 years ago. Members of the royal family today continue to treasure their relationships with the original inhabitants of this land.

The relationship that Queen Elizabeth currently has with Māori is an extension of the bond that was initiated by her direct ancestor six generations ago. Of course, as with all families, the relationship is not confined to the past. Queen Elizabeth’s great-grandson, Prince George, is third in line to the throne. He will carry on his family’s legacy and build on its connections to this country and its people into the 22nd century.