Kiwi OE welcomed, says prince

The United Kingdom may have clamped down on the big Kiwi OE, but Prince Charles still believes New Zealanders are an "important and crucial part" of his homeland.

At a reception at the Aotea Centre last night, Prince Charles said New Zealand exports had not just left UK "knee deep in lamb and butter" but also in skilled professionals.

Speaking a month after the British Government cut New Zealanders' working holidays from two years to one, Prince Charles said New Zealanders were working in fields such as medicine, the arts, information technology and law.

"Before I left London, I had a reception for Australians and New Zealanders. They seem to have taken over most of the United Kingdom and are a very important, crucial part of it. They occupy crucial positions and are doing good in all sorts of areas. So we couldn't do without them."

"I've often thought you have huge success in exporting things to other parts of the world. We are knee deep in lamb and butter, but also you export so many young people who seem to make it their business to go on GAP years or whatever. It is always wonderful to see so many backpackers and people driving round in minivans with kiwis on the back. It gives us great pleasure."

The Prince also lauded the marine conservation work in a "wonderful, pristine environment" the contribution to peacekeeping and redevelopment of the Armed Forces, and agricultural work.

"This is a country for which I shall always hold nothing but the utmost affection as long as the dear Lord allows me to stagger on."

Prime Minister Helen Clark and Auckland Mayor Dick Hubbard also spoke.