Buddies invited for Prince Charles' birthday

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WHEN I'M 64: The prince and his wife, the Duchess of Cornwall, are to visit New Zealand between November 10 and 16 as part of the Queen's Diamond Jubilee celebrations. The prince's birthday is on November 14, as is Governor-General Sir Jerry Mateparae's.

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Sixty-four Kiwis who share their birthday with Prince Charles could have the opportunity to make small talk with him over whitebait fritters when he celebrates his 64th.

The prince and his wife, the Duchess of Cornwall, are to visit New Zealand between November 10 and 16 as part of the Queen's Diamond Jubilee celebrations. The prince's birthday is on November 14, as is Governor-General Sir Jerry Mateparae's.

To mark the occasion, Sir Jerry has invited Kiwis over 18 who also share the birthday to put their names forward for a Kiwiana-themed party at Government House. A ballot will be held in October to decide which applicants will be invited to attend.

Sir Jerry said New Zealand music would be played and whitebait, asparagus, lamb and pavlova were among possible menu items.

“We're hoping that we will be able to use it as a special opportunity to provide a less formal way of New Zealanders meeting his royal highness.”

When asked if he and the prince would be exchanging gifts for the day, Sir Jerry said that would be worked out privately. “His presence is my present for the day.”

Victoria University statistics expert Richard Arnold estimated that 12,000 New Zealanders would have a November 14 birthday, although not all of them would be eligible for the party because many would be under 18.

Government House officials have asked that those selected to attend not bring gifts.

However, Monarchy New Zealand chairman Sean Palmer said a suitable gift might be a donation to a not-for-profit organisation in recognition of the prince's charitable endeavours.

A small token representing New Zealand, such as a tiki or pounamu, might also be appropriate.

PARTY TIME

Criteria: aged over 18, born on November 14

Application forms: www.gg.govt.nz

Applications close: October 10

- © Fairfax NZ News