Royal marathon ahead

Margie Brittin from Victoria Station dressed up the shop window ahead of the coronation – and was even flying the flag in Victoria Street this week.

Half a century in New Zealand, and he considers himself a Kiwi – but Roger Gordon is very much a royalist.

And he expects to be on breakfast duty at some point this weekend while New Zealand born wife Jo enjoys a television marathon watching King Charles’ coronation.

Roger Gordon

Gordon, a Waipā district councillor, believed many would have at one time questioned Charles’ credentials to be king, but he had matured “in terms of regality” and the public would continue to warm to him.

Charles would certainly be most pleased to know the council is following “guidance” from the Department of Internal Affairs around planning initiatives that have a focus on promoting sustainability.

From tomorrow buildings including the Te Awamutu library and Cambridge Town Hall and clock tower will be illuminated in royal purple   to mark the coronation of King Charles III.

On Saturday two Tilia Cordata – European limes – said to be a favourite of the King – will be planted, one in Victoria Park, Te Awamutu at 9am and the other in Victoria Square, Cambridge at 11am. The events will be open to the public.

The ceremonies will be a combined effort from Waipā District Council and the Cambridge and Te Awamutu Boards.

Jo Davies-Colley

Jo Davies-Colley

Cambridge Community Board chair Jo Davies-Colley said the board looked forward to welcoming the Cambridge community to join in celebrating “this historical event”.

“Alongside the significance of the tree planting ceremony, we are thankful to have the support of the Cambridge RSA and the participation of the Cambridge Brass Band with singer Chris Gale.”

For Gordon, royalty is part of his heritage.

“I grew up with the Queen always being a figure to give direction and stability.”

On returns to England, he enjoys the royal events which capture the imagination of the public – and sat along the Windsor mile – The Long Walk – for the wedding of Harry and Meghan and on another occasion, when arriving slightly late for the Trooping of the Colours, found himself 20 rows back.

That underlined his view that revenue generated by the Royal Family was “something you could not put a value on”.

“I think the Royal Family still has a place in New Zealand, though some may disagree – but history is important,” he said.

Margie Brittin from Victoria Station dressed up the shop window ahead of the coronation – and was even flying the flag in Victoria Street this week.

 

 

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