Media release 14 October 2003
Princess Royal opens study conference on NZ visit
HRH the Princess Royal begins a five-day visit to New Zealand with the opening of the New Zealand leg of the 2003
Commonwealth Study Conference at Government House this Saturday.
The Princess Royal is continuing the work of HRH the Duke of Edinburgh who founded the Commonwealth Study Conference for
the development of leaders in commonwealth countries.
Conference Chairperson Anne Knowles says the Conference, held every six years, brings together 200 potential leaders
from 40 Commonwealth countries for an intensive two-week course based on workplace enquiry and discussion.
"The Conference has aided the development of many of today's business, union, government and community leaders, drawing
on the resources of businesses and community organisations in the host countries, under the guidance of the Duke of
Edinburgh," Ms Knowles said.
"Having the Princess Royal officially preside over the work of this year's Conference and take part in Conference
undertakings in several parts of New Zealand is a significant honour."
This year's Conference, co-hosted by Australia and New Zealand, features visits to industry and community organisations
in 11 Australian and three New Zealand locations and requires working reports on issues relating to the theme 'People
first in the global community'. The New Zealand areas hosting Conference activities are Auckland/Far North, Bay of
Plenty/Hamilton and Christchurch/West Coast.
ENDS