Warm Waitangi welcome for new commissioner

Newly appointed Territorial Commander, Commissioner Janine Donaldson, had her first visit to Waitangi in February, and it won’t be her last. 

After a number of years serving overseas, Janine says she appreciated the warm welcome and friendly reception she received from everyone she encountered. 

‘This is my first time here at Waitangi. It’s a beautiful setting and rich with New Zealand history,’ she says. 

‘You think of the past, you think of the beauty, and you think of the sacredness.’ 

She says being able to meet other people and share The Salvation Army story was a highlight. 

‘The friendliness of people, and the opportunity to engage in conversation with us—and us with them—was just incredible. People shared with us, and it was great to hear their stories, as well as meet people who’d gone to The Salvation Army or who were interested in who The Salvation Army is.’ 

Janine was not the only Salvation Army presence at the Waitangi Day ceremonies, where she offered a prayer to the gathered crowds. 

Rūnanga co-chair Bishop Kito Pikaahu led the morning services, and Captain Hana Seddon from Rotorua also offered a prayer, while other Te Ope Whakaora whānau from Wellington, Taranaki, Hamilton and Gisborne were among the crowd. 

Janine says it won’t be the last time she attends Waitangi Day commemorations during her tenure as territorial commander. 

‘I think every kiwi should come here. The Salvation Army, along with many other New Zealanders, are committed to the Treaty. It’s a very sacred and significant place.’