PERSONAL RECORD. BLACKIE, NORMAN W. BRITISH ROYAL VISIT TAURANGA 23RD MARCH 1970 AND 1977

This item is part of the Tauranga Libraries Norman Blackie Collection. Norman Blackie (1899-1993) was a keen amateur filmmaker who captured civic events around Tauranga using a modified Keystone Model A7 16mm camera.

This actuality shows scenes from Queen Elizabeth II's royal visits to Tauranga in 1970 and 1977. Scenes from the royal visit on March 23 1970 show the Britannia arriving and berthing at the Coronation wharf and Queen Elizabeth, Prince Phillip, Princess Anne and Prince Charles welcomed by the Honourable Mr Allen, Mr Calder [Chairman of the Tauranga Harbour Board] and Tauranga City Councillor V. C. Smith. A large crowd lines the streets as the royal party travels by car to the Elizabeth Youth Centre where the Royal party is welcomed by Mayor Robert A. Owens and Town Clerk Mr C. G. Marchant. The Royal Party moves through crowds of school children, through Memorial Park, around the fountain, and to the skating rink, before returning to the Britannia. Royals wave as they leave harbour.

A second sequence begins with media articles including a NZ Woman's weekly cover celebrating the Royal Silver Jubilee visit in 1977. Footage shows Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Phillip arrive via aeroplane and are greeted by officials and crowds of the public. The royal party leaves on a Air Force plane. Closing shots show an army group parading past the Mayor's offices.