Wednesday, June 13, 2007

Corfu ------------]> New Zealand -------------]> UNESCO

Welcome to World Heritage Committee 2007

23 June - 2 July 2007


Ko Tongariro te maunga
Ko Taupo-nui-a-Tia te moana
Ko Ngati Tuwharetoa te iwi
Ko Te Heuheu te tangata
Human identity is strengthened by an affiliation with the surrounding environment. All over the world people have longstanding relationships with land, forests, waterways, oceans and the air, creating unique views and understandings of what heritage means and embodies.
The 31st session of the World Heritage Committee in Christchurch, New Zealand, will provide an opportunity for people and cultures to share their own distinctive views of natural and cultural heritage with the rest of the world and develop an understanding of their own unique values associated with these relationships.
One of my goals for the 31st session of the World Heritage Committee is to build an appreciation of our global heritage in its broadest context. I also hope to help showcase the natural and cultural beauty and magnificence of the Pacific region.
I believe that for too long the outstanding universal value of the Pacific and its culture has been overlooked. The concept of the World Heritage Convention enables United Nations communities to see the incredibly rich and diverse heritage of the Pacific region as a cultural treasure valued by all communities of the world. I hope to share some of this unique heritage with you during your stay in Christchurch.
I would like to extend a warm welcome to all of you travelling to New Zealand and hope that your time in our country is filled with memorable experiences. Travel safely and I look forward to seeing you in Christchurch at the 31st session of the World Heritage Committee.


Welcome to Aotearoa New Zealand.


Tumu Te Heuheu

Chair World Heritage Committee

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