Charles and Camilla tackle environmental and women’s issues on day two in New Zealand

The Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall spent a busy day in New Zealand meeting with government officials, encouraging young businesspeople, speaking about women’s issues, and seeing the impact of plastic on the environment.

A traditional Ceremony of Welcome took place on the lawn of Government House to kick off the day. Their Royal Highnesses received a traditional Māori welcome from members of the NZ Defence Force, and the Prince of Wales inspected the Guard after taking the Royal Salute.

Prince Charles then met with Jacinda Arden, the Prime Minister of New Zealand, whom he met during the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting last year. He also spoke with Simon Bridges, the leader of the NZ National Party.

The Prince of Wales also attended a Prince’s Trust Tea at Mantells, Mt Eden, giving a short speech under a sign proclaiming, “Youth Can Do It.” He met with young people who have started businesses with the support of the Trust over the past year, such as Kyle Ratanaas who quit his job to run an online business selling traditional Māori medicine. The Prince also spoke with Prince’s Trust NZ ambassadors such as All Black rugby legend Ali Williams.

Meanwhile, the Duchess took part in a discussion on domestic abuse with Shine (Safer Homes in New Zealand Everyday). The organisation runs two women’s refuges in Auckland and supports victims of domestic abuse through a helpline and crisis advocacy.

Later, the royal couple greeted the large crowds that gathered to see them in Auckland’s Viaduct Harbour, chatting and shaking hands with the public. Charles and Camilla were there to meet members of Emirates Team NZ, the current defending champions of the America’s Cup. The team will compete in Auckland during the America’s Cup 2021.

Whilst the Prince of Wales was on plastic patrol, the Duchess of Cornwall, along with Governor-General of New Zealand Dame Patsy Reddy, took part in a series of discussion in her role as president of Women of the World. The Women of the World festivals “aim to celebrate women and girls by raising awareness of the issues that prevent them from achieving their potential.”

The Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall rounded off their whirlwind day with a reception at Government House hosted by the Governor-General.

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