More than a decade after the former Governor-General Catherine Tizard leapt out of a plane to help raise money for Guide Dog Services (GDS), Dame Catherine has been named GDS’ first ever Ambassador.

In her new role, Dame Catherine will participate in a wide range of GDS activities across the country.

In accepting the honorary position, Dame Catherine is reunited with Joe Walker, who is National Manager of Guide Dog Services and was formerly amongst her senior staff when she served as Governor-General from 1990-1996.

"I still recall that one of my more interesting tasks as Governor-General was to provide a home for Guide Dog Puppy Hobson at Government House," says Dame Catherine. "Hobson was an enormous attraction for visiting Heads of State, foreign dignitaries and the New Zealand public. His achievements have added to my huge respect for the Foundation of the Blind and I am delighted to accept this position as Ambassador."

Dame Catherine's appointment was announced yesterday at a gathering of the "GDS family" – including Foundation members and staff, puppy walkers, breeding stock guardians, sponsors, and friends – who gathered at the Manurewa-based centre to celebrate International Guide Dog Day.

The RNZFB is the primary provider of services to approximately 11,500 blind, deafblind and vision-impaired members.  Just one-third of the Foundation’s $21m operating budget comes from Government.  And virtually 100% of Guide Dog Services’ annual $3m-plus budget must be raised.

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For further information please contact:

Sarah Byers RNZFB Communications, Ph: 09 355 6906 or 021 752 875 OR

Jane Gower RNZFB Communications, Ph: 09 355 6884 or 021 357 412.