Netball fit for a Prince

Press, 3 July 1986, Page 1

Netball fit for a Prince

PA Auckland The Government’s decision to have Prince Edward watch an Auckland netball match during his New Zealand visit has surprised only the netballers. When the call went out for people to suggest engagements for the Prince during his- two days in Auckland, the Auckland Netball Association did not even consider inviting him. “We were very surprised when they approached us,” said the association’s

secretary, Ms Joan Durbin. “I didn’t even think of his coming to see women’s sport.” The Prince will watch the final of the Auckland under-20s tournament and will be entertained at an afternoon tea of scones, savouries and asparagus rolls. The Mayor of Auckland, Dame Catherine Tizard, said the Prince might enjoy watching a fast, vigorous and energetic game of netball played by “nice, long-legged, healthy, good-looking New Zealand

women.” He would see a crosssectionofcultures there that he would not see at Government House, she said. The Internal Affairs Department’s chief reception officer, Ms Genevieve Jordon, said Prince Edward had not asked to see a netball match “but he didn’t refuse when it was suggested.” “It will be a "nice change for him,” she said. The Prince will visit the Motor Show in Auckland bn July 19 but other engagements have yet to be announced.