Mayor Volzke's statement on the passing of Queen Elizabeth II

On behalf of the Stratford District Council, I want to pass on our condolences and sympathy to the Royal family for the passing of Queen Elizabeth II.

For many of us, she was the only monarch we have known, as we were born during her decades-long reign. It is no surprise to see the outpouring of grief as people around the world react to the news.

She served with grace and integrity, providing stable and consistent guidance, which earned her respect from leaders around the world.

She was a remarkable woman, and we will remember her strength and commitment to serving others for generations to come.

Stratford was honoured to have a visit from the Queen in 1954 and some of our community members will recall this day fondly.

As the only monarch this Council has ever known, it will be a notable difference as new elected members are sworn in next month. For the past seven terms, as part of that ceremony, I have sworn allegiance to the Queen.

This October, that wording will change for the first time in 70 years, when my fellow elected members and I will instead swear our allegiance to the King.

A condolence book is available at the Stratford Library and Visitor Information Centre, and the New Zealand flag at Council's building on Miranda Street will fly at half-mast up until Her Majesty’s State Memorial Service in New Zealand, except for Proclamation Day.

You can find photos and a video of the Queen’s visit to Stratford in 1954 on our Recollect site here: https://stratford.recollect.co.nz/