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A morning at Government House Auckland

 

QSM Family-208In her own words, local identity Christine Bygrave shares a special experience with readers – September 4 was the day she received her Queens Service Medal from Dame Patsy Reddy at Government House Auckland.

I was invited to bring four guests to share my day, so my husband Bill and our three family – Mark, Paula and Robin – were able to join me for the morning.

Getting to Government House  at 9am in Auckland was easier than one thinks as daughter-in-law  Fiona called up a Zoomy taxi on her cell phone, tracked it, paid automatically with her cell phone online, and similarly another Zoomy to take the rest of the family which arrived in two minutes, with only a 15 minute drive from Robin’s home in Sandringham to Government House in Epsom. 

What a beautiful old house, very elegantly furnished in a very beautiful garden on the slopes of Mount Eden set among some huge and elegant trees.

Separated from my family I was escorted formally to the lounge to wait, where the 13 recipients gathered till the appropriate time. Relaxing together proved to be a lovely time to chat with other recipients, including Sir Roger Hall of literary fame, and Mike King who has been working hard on suicide prevention. We were a group of diverse accomplishments, including ballet, athletics coaching, education, the rainbow community, and community service of various kinds. 

Escorted to the ceremony and seated, what a privilege I felt to be present while Sir Roger Hall received his knighthood from Dame Patsy, kneeling on a stool with the sword carried in on a red velvet cushion. She was careful with the sword as she placed it on each shoulder, exactly as one imagines! It was a very special occasion. I love his plays.

When my turn arrived Dame Patsy chatted with me, in hushed tones so it was quite personal, while presenting my medal. What a charming lady.

Returning to our lounge after the ceremony with our medals, we were invited to join our families for a wine or juice and some light refreshments. All the assisting personel were available and chatted to the families and guests. Each family group was escorted individually back to the ceremony hall to introduce their guests to Dame Patsy and have a family photograph with her. 

When it was time to leave a taxi was called for us with the push of a button by the concierge, medal boxes and warrants placed in our hands and we were on the way home again. It was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience and I enjoyed every minute of it. Thank you my community for honouring me in such a very special way. 

Christine Bygrave QSM shares her special moment with husband Bill and family, alongside Governer-General Dame Patsy Reddy.

 
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