It is one of the beautiful and comforting aspects of living in a small country.Īnd while this moment feels incredibly daunting to me right now, I do take comfort knowing there are around 30 New Zealanders studying here, and statistically at least one of them will be my cousin.īut then there are some moments that serve to remind you, that despite distance, despite vastly different histories and experiences, there are many things that connect us. I am used to walking into a room in New Zealand and knowing at least someone.
There are some moments in life that make the world feel small and connected. It is a privilege to be here, and I thank you for the honour. In Te Reo Māori, the language of the indigenous people of New Zealand, I paid tribute to all of the esteemed guests who stand here in this great forest of knowledge. E oku manukura, nga pou haemata o te ngahere.Į Piko o Te Mahuri, tera te tipu o te rakau.