Book remembers coronation visit of the Queen and Prince Philip to NZ

Angela Robertson with a copy of a book about memories of the British royal family. Photo / David Haxton

There are always lots of wide-ranging discussions during regular write-your-story community workshops, that Angela Robertson, from Paraparaumu, leads.

“People that come along are various ages. The oldest has been 100 and the youngest 40. They all come for different reasons.”

But one of the reoccurring topics is about the British royal family especially the coronation visit to New Zealand by Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip.

“It was a really big deal in 1953.”

People brought along scrapbooks to the workshops creating more interesting royal discussions.

“So I collected all these stories, not just from the coronation tour, and put them into book form, for those who wanted it, and applied for Creative NZ funding to publish it.”

With funding secured, the book was published, and she was delighted with the finished product called Memories of the Royal Family — A Kiwi Collection.

“I’m happy with it and the people who contributed their memories are absolutely thrilled.”

Creating the book was also “an emotional journey”.

“I didn’t realise what this family went through, and what it takes to be a royal.”

Robertson said the book was “a captivating collection of experiences and perspectives that takes the reader on an extraordinary journey through recent generations of the royal family as seen through the eyes and cherished memories of the Kiwi community.

It was a “treasure trove of stories, anecdotes, and musings, accompanied by intimate family photos, memorabilia, and original newspaper cuttings lovingly preserved by our community.

“From the poignant to the humorous, these shared moments are a testament to the diversity within the population, and the enduring fascination, admiration, and affection for the royal family in Aotearoa.

“References to radio broadcasts, and original film footage used in New Zealand, provide a deep appreciation of the traditions and social norms of the era too.

“And it’s a touching reminder that history isn’t just about the past, it’s a living and breathing story that continues to shape our lives into the future.

The launch of the book takes place in the Ocean Road Community Centre, Paraparaumu Beach, on Friday February 23 from 10.30am to 12 noon. All welcome. Morning tea provided.

Copies of the book can be purchased directly from Angela via kiaora@angelarobertson.nz, from Books & Co in Ōtaki, and from online bookstores in paperback, e-book, and kindle formats.