Welcome Arch, Lyttelton

1869

Hocken Pictorial Collection, Box 172-003

Unpublished

Alfred, Duke of Edinburgh, was the first ‘Royal’ visitor to New Zealand, and despite the ructions of the New Zealand War, his visit produced an overwhelming mania for the monarchy. Upon arriving into Wellington on 11 April 1869, he faced a hearty welcome and loyal address from dignitaries, including representatives from Ngati-Toa, Ngati-Awa, Ngati-Raukawa, Whanganui, Ngati-Kahungunu, and Ngati-Porou. He also travelled to Auckland, Nelson, Dunedin, and Christchurch, where it was all bunting and more celebrations. This ‘Welcome Arch’ at Lyttelton was just part of the occasion.