Spent three productive days here in New Zealand. Enjoyed catching up with many Singaporeans living and studying in Auckland, learning about their lives here, and sharing news and memories of home. Then met old friends Philip Burdon (Chairman, Asia:NZ Foundation) and Don McKinnon (former NZ Deputy Prime Minister) who have done much for Singapore-NZ relations, at dinner hosted by the Asia:NZ Foundation. Also met two young New Zealanders who studied at NUS on Asia:NZ Foundation scholarships: Tessa McGregor (civil engineering) and Robina Ang (bio-engineering). Both enjoyed their time in Singapore and have built life-long friendships.
Yesterday, I called on PM John Key in Wellington, as well as Governor-General Terry Mateparae. Both not only lived several years in Singapore, but have a child each born in Singapore too! Also learnt much about Maori culture and history at the Te Papa Tongarewa, the national museum of New Zealand.
Today I wrapped up my visit with a tour of our Navy frigate the RSS Stalwart that is in harbour in Wellington. The weather was chilly, but we had a warm time on board, meeting the crew, plus other Singaporeans living here who were also visiting the ship. The Stalwart is mid-way through RSN’s longest naval deployment this year. I wish the ship and crew all the best for their voyage and exercises. They return to Singapore in November.
I am next heading to Australia, and will have more to post then. - LHL
Spent three productive days here in New Zealand. Enjoyed catching up with many Singaporeans living and studying in Auckland, learning about their lives here, and sharing news and memories of home. Then met old friends Philip Burdon (Chairman, Asia:NZ Foundation) and Don McKinnon (former NZ Deputy Prime Minister) who have done much for Singapore-NZ relations, at dinner hosted by the Asia:NZ Foundation. Also met two young New Zealanders who studied at NUS on Asia:NZ Foundation scholarships: Tessa McGregor (civil engineering) and Robina Ang (bio-engineering). Both enjoyed their time in Singapore and have built life-long friendships. Yesterday, I called on PM John Key in Wellington, as well as Governor-General Jerry Mateparae. Both not only lived several years in Singapore, but have a child each born in Singapore too! Also learnt much about Maori culture and history at the Te Papa Tongarewa, the national museum of New Zealand. Today I wrapped up my visit with a tour of our Navy frigate the RSS Stalwart that is in harbour in Wellington. The weather was chilly, but we had a warm time on board, meeting the crew, plus other Singaporeans living here who were also visiting the ship. The Stalwart is mid-way through RSN’s longest naval deployment this year. I wish the ship and crew all the best for their voyage and exercises. They return to Singapore in November. I am next heading to Australia, and will have more to post then. - LHL
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