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1983: The last great royal tour
Good morning neighbours, an old gem for you...
Around 20,000 people came out to watch the Prince and Princess of Wales do a walkabout in Cathedral Square on April 28, 1983, despite “chilly, intermittent and penetrating rain”, but The Press also wondered if royal tours were approaching their use-by date.
The tone of the paper’s editorial was very different from that struck 30 years earlier, when the Queen toured.
“Rapid communications and travel have removed much of the novelty from Royal appearances in New Zealand,” The Press said. “The charm and interest remain enhanced this time by the presence of the future Queen, Princess Diana, and the baby who could some day be King William V.”
The Press looked into the future: “Before the end of the century Prince Charles can probably expect to be King Charles III. His son, at present in Auckland, may well still be on the throne in the unimaginable world of the year 2050.
“Although New Zealand has not the vigorous republican movement evident in Australia, the question is reasonably asked here whether an hereditary monarch, living 12,000 miles away, will continue to be the most appropriate head of State for New Zealand.”
Despite this, every move was still recorded and star power was very evident, as The Press reported.
“A faint touch of blue shone through the clouds about 10 minutes before the end of the walkabout. It highlighted the Princess’ hair and brought favourable comments from a cluster of young girls.
“Many people were surprised at how tall and slender the Princess is. ‘Her face is thinner than I expected, but much prettier,’ said one woman.
“The glowing natural complexion of the Princess needed little highlight, just a glimmer of gold eye-shadow, a touch of mascara, and a subtle lip-colouring.”
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Show us what you've been up to...
Brighten our day, and show us a glimpse into your world, neighbours.
We'd love to see some of the photos you've taken lately or any craft/DIY projects you're working on.
Simply add a photo below 📷🌅 🌻
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Do you have a great recipe for pears?
Kia ora neighbours. We give away free copies to readers whose recipes are used in our magazine, and we're still on the hunt for pear recipes! Send your family's favourite way to use up this delicious fruit, to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, by the end of this week . If we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of the April issue.
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Poll: Is street parking fair game?
Some people are frustrated by their neighbours or neighbour's friends parking on the street outside their house. This means they have to park further away themselves.
Do you think it is inconsiderate to park directly outside a neighbour's house on the road? Or do you think street parking is fair game?
Share your thoughts below.
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67.8% Yes, street parks belong to no one
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30.2% No, it's inconsiderate
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2.1% Other - I'll share below