New Zealand is gearing up to celebrate the first birthday of King Charles, the newly ascended monarch. Although the monarch’s actual birth date falls in November, this unique tradition, similar to that of the late Queen Elizabeth II, allows New Zealanders to honor the king alongside the widely recognized holiday.
British monarchs who are not born during the summer season, which spans from June to August, follow the custom of celebrating their birthdays twice. The first celebration takes place on their actual birth date, while the second celebration occurs later in the British summer. This second celebration is accompanied by a magnificent parade that adds grandeur to the festivities.
The rationale behind this tradition lies in the desire for favorable weather during the Trooping the Colour parade which is scheduled on 10 June this year. By scheduling the celebration during the summer, there is a greater likelihood of pleasant conditions for the outdoor parade. The Trooping the Colour parade, a longstanding tradition held near Buckingham Palace for over 270 years, serves as the official commemoration of the monarch’s birthday in the United Kingdom. Typically, this spectacular event takes place on a Saturday in early June.
Overall, New Zealand’s choice to celebrate King Charles’ birthday in June, along with the Queen’s Birthday, reflects their deep connection to the British monarchy and their commitment to upholding longstanding traditions.
Coronation’s Honours List
Today, Prime Minister Chris Hipkins announced the recepients of the 2023 King’s Birthday and Coronation Honours consist of one appointment to the Order of New Zealand, one Dame Grand, and six appointments as Dames and Knights Companion.
Queen Camilla: Appointed to the Order of New Zealand.
Dame Jacinda Ardern: Recognized for her service to New Zealand during challenging times as Prime Minister from 2017 to 2023.
Dame Helene Quilter: Recognized today for public service and the arts, retired in 2023 after 45 years in the public service, culminating in her appointment as Deputy Public Service Commissioner of Te Kawa Mataaho Public Service Commission.
Dame Jo Brosnahan: Recognized for services to governance and business, founded Pūmanawa Kaiārahi – Leadership New Zealand (LNZ) and served as its Chair for over a decade.
Dame Teuila Percival: Recognized for services to health and the Pacific community, a pediatrician and researcher, and a tireless advocate for Pacific children’s health.
Sir Wayne Smith: Recognized for his services to rugby, having helped guide both the men’s and women’s sides to Rugby World Cup victories.
Sir Selwyn Parata: Recognized for services to Māori, Chair of Te Runanganui o Ngāti Porou, Chair of Te Matatini, and Chair of Te Pihopatanga o Aotearoa.
Sir Stephen Kós: Recognized for ongoing services to the judiciary and legal education, a Judge of the Supreme Court since 2022, previously served on the High Court and the Court of Appeal.