The vast majority of people cannot remember a time before Elizabeth II was our Queen. For more than 70 years she has been a constant figure in the public lives of New Zealand, the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, and the entire Commonwealth.

The Platinum Jubilee in 2022 is the ideal occasion to reflect on the seven decades of service Elizabeth II has provided to her peoples around the world. She has shined a spotlight on countless good causes and has recognised innumerable people who have worked to build a better world. She has praised all of her countries in times of triumph and has offered consolation to each in times of national tragedy. She has offered counsel to many governments and served as a nonpartisan symbol of unity beyond the political fray. She is a voice for amity and for reconciliation, showing a deep respect for the past but also a committed concern for the future.

She is rapidly approaching the record of being the longest serving monarch in the history of the world. At this point, she has already enjoyed the fourth longest reign ever. Prince Johann II of Liechtenstein and King Bhumibol Adulyadej of Thailand both reached their Platinum Jubilees, but she will surpass their records early this May. At that point, only Louis XIV of France, who reigned for 72 years, will still exceed her. Hopefully, in May of 2024, she will surpass him and become the longest serving monarch ever. While such records are not as important as the commitment she has shown to her role or the admiration of her peoples around the world, her unmatched endurance would make the reign of this extraordinary woman all the more remarkable.