Samoan Soprano Aivale Cole has been selected as one of the New Zealanders attending the funeral of Queen Elizabeth II in London.
The London based soprano and winner of the 2009 Lexus Song Quest will attend alongside the Māori King, Kiingi Tūheitia, former Governor-General Dame Silvia Cartwright, Victoria Cross for New Zealand recipient, Bill (Willie) Apiata and former Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, Sir Don McKinnon and Dame Kiri Te Kanawa.
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern confirmed the group who will be in attendance. “It is a privilege to attend the funeral alongside other New Zealanders from different walks of life to pay our respects on behalf of all New Zealanders.
“The broad range of New Zealand’s representation is a testament to the Queen’s long standing relationship and engagement with our country,” Jacinda Arden said.
In addition, some holders of New Zealand’s most senior Royal honours have also been invited to attend the funeral. Amongst those are representatives of the Victoria Cross for New Zealand, The New Zealand Cross, and the Order of New Zealand.
