His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh arrives in Aotearoa New Zealand
The Duke of Edinburgh, Global Patron of The Duke of Edinburgh's International Award, was officially welcomed to Aotearoa this morning during a heartwarming Mihi Whakatau at Blue Light in Auckland.
The Duke, who is here to celebrate six decades of The Duke of Edinburgh’s Hillary Award, met 60 Award participants as they completed a range of activities, including high ropes, camp skills and Adventurous Journey planning.
HRH then continued a day of Award visits, by surprising young trainees on The Spirit of New Zealand, mid-way through a 10-day sailing trip; some of whom were on their Adventurous Journey.
The Duke, who completed his own Gold Award on The Spirit, was taken on a tour of the ship by Duke of Ed and Sprit alumni, who were able to share their memories from their own trip. His Royal Highness also got involved, hoisting one of the ships’ 14 sails alongside a cohort of voyage participants.
Manawatakitahi
Hearts beating as one
WATCH our video as we celebrate 60 years of supporting rangatahi in Aotearoa to become kaitiaki for our communities, our environment and our future through The Duke of Edinburgh’s Hillary Award.
Manawatakitahi reflects the Award values of balancing passion, health, connection with people and strengthening our heartbeat with the natural world.
Whilst we might all be individuals, when our community joins together, it’s epic. From Award Leaders and volunteers, to supporters, parents, staff and participants – everyone has a role in helping to build a greater Aotearoa, both now and in the future; hearts beating together.
This year, we say thank you.
Spotlight Q&A
We kōrero with our Award whānau about their Duke of Ed experience. Get inspired by their stories spanning 60 years. Simply swipe and click to read on Facebook.
