On 13 and 14 November, iconic Auckland church St-Matthew-in-the-City will host two events to commemorate the 19th Anniversary of the often-recalled visit of President Nelson Mandela. 

On 13 November 1995 President Nelson Mandela came to St Matthew-in-the-City to thank the anti-apartheid movement and the people of Aotearoa for their support of the freedom struggle in South Africa. President Mandela spoke to a large crowd from the St Matthew’s pulpit.

In the year following President Mandela’s death, St Matthew’s wishes both to honour and remember that day, along with Mandela’s work and message. The events aim to address the current state of social, racial and economic justice in New Zealand.

Of the commemorations Vicar of St Matthew-in-the-City Rev Dr Helen Jacobi said, “St Matt’s is a place where the people from anywhere in Auckland can come to worship or simply reflect on the issues of the day. With these two events we want to engage in conversation about the abiding relevance of President Mandela’s legacy for our country and our city, and inspire another generation of leaders with President Mandela’s vision of a more just and peaceful world.”

Thursday 13 November 2014, 7.30pm - 9pm

Remembering the day Madiba came

Koha to attend

All are welcome at this special gathering to remember the day President Mandela addressed the Auckland community.

HE Zodwa Lallie, High Commissioner for South Africa, will discuss how 20 years of freedom has impacted South Africa and how the country is now living up to Mandela’s vision of justice, reconciliation and peace.

There will also be special performances and refreshments.

Friday 14 November 2014, 7.30am - 9.00am

Living the Vision – business and Mandela’s legacy

$55 + GST per person (Breakfast is provided. Registration is essential)

This event aims to bring Auckland’s business community together to exchange views on how the corporate sector can play its part in making the city a better place.

Speakers include Carly Robinson, Fonterra’s Director Global Sustainability and Social Responsibility, Les Morgan, Director of Operations for Sudima Hotels, Rangimarie Hunia, representing Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei, and business writer Rod Oram.

This event is presented in partnership with Auckland Chamber of Commerce, and sponsored by Hesketh Henry Lawyers and Trust Management Ltd.

For more information, please visit www.aucklandchamber.co.nz

For more information, images and interivews, or a transcript of President Mandela’s 1995 address to the St Matthew-in-the-City congregation, please contact Siobhan Waterhouse on +64 22 126 4149 or siobhan@mrfahrenheitpr.co.nz 

Photographer: John Selkirk