25 Jun 2004

People’s hero, Sir Peter Blake, honoured today with the launch of the Sir Peter Blake Trust.

The charitable Trust will develop programmes to enable young New Zealanders to make a difference in the world through learning about environmental issues, and developing leadership skills.

The Trust has been formed in consultation and with the full support of Pippa, Lady Blake. It is endorsed by Sir Peter’s supporters, friends and family as a fitting way to honour him and keep his memory alive.

In acknowledging Peter’s many friends and supporters, Lady Blake said considerable thought had gone into deciding upon the most appropriate commemoration.

“Peter would have wanted something filled with life, that would provide young people with the sort of opportunities and inspiration that his own early years in New Zealand gave to him.

“As a Trustee, I want to ensure that this Trust will be that living memorial and I truly hope that all New Zealanders will welcome it and will both support and use it,” she said.

The Sir Peter Blake Trust has been established with an initial endowment of $3.8 million by the NZ Government. This initial capital fund will be conserved and further support will be sought to ensure the durability of the Trust for all New Zealanders.

The Governor General, Dame Silvia Cartwright, has agreed to be the Trust’s patron and Ann Sherry, CEO of Westpac, will Chair the Board of Trustees. Westpac is a key partner of the Trust, providing marketing, custodial and administrative services.

Other Trustees include the Ministries of Education and Environment, which will work in partnership with the Trust on relevant projects; Dr Mark Orams, a marine scientist and long time sailing friend of Sir Peter’s; Chris Mace, a businessman and friend of Sir Peter’s; and His Excellency the Ambassador for Brazil, Sergio Serra.

Chair of the Trust, Ann Sherry of Westpac, said one of its key objectives is to engage young New Zealanders in the story of Sir Peter.

“The Trust wants to inspire young people to become involved in caring for our environment as well as encourage them to follow his footsteps in leadership. We will undertake a wide range of activities and are pleased to have been able to announce four at the launch today”, she said.

The first four Trust initiatives include the creation of a prestigious Leadership medal in Sir Peter’s name, along with a supporting leadership development and awards programme, the sponsorship of students to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) children’s conference, and an annual fellowship to be awarded to an outstanding environmental educator. More initiatives are being considered.

The Trust has created a window into Sir Peter’s adventures and life story through a web site which will keep people up to date with the work of the Trust and provide a way for New Zealanders to get involved – SirPeterBlakeTrust.org