The event opened with a welcome by NZAF Life Member Bill Logan. NZAF Central and Southern Regional Manager Laura Jones talked about the impact of volunteers and members on the work of the NZAF, inviting guests who worked with the NZAF 25 years ago to come forward. Ashley Lovett, who worked with the NZAF in the early days, spoke of the tremendous work done by hospital nurses. Dame Margaret Shields told of her admiration for those people that championed the cause when she was a member of parliament. Phil Parkinson gave a history of the early days when HIV was first recognised as a threat to communities.
Beate Lutz, who has been oa longtime supporter of the NZAF, talked about the many volunteers and key figures associated with the NZAF in Wellington over the past 25 years, while NZAF Trust Board Chair Alastair Cameron saluted the work done by the many people associated with the NZAF Āwhina Centre.
The party also also provided a fitting opportunity to reflect on the people who we have lost to AIDS, and the contribution from people like Sister Paula Brettkelly to the work of the NZAF.
The NZAF will be holding more events to mark 25 years of our history over the next year. They'll be announced here, or you can read more about the Christchurch and
Auckland garden parties here.
