It was a special day of family bonding time and togetherness when the Philippine Embassy Team with their families and private staff held a picnic at the Kaitoke Regional Park, a Wellington Regional Park in Upper Hutt on 28 February 2015. Amidst the lush natural settings of centuries old trees, bush, plants, river pools and camping facilities at the foothills of the Tararua ranges, Ambassador Virginia H. Benavidez, together with the officers, staff, families and household members had a meaningful and enjoyable Saturday as they welcomed newly arrived Communications and Protocol officer Rustico Velando and spent hours taking in the scenic beauty, walking along the pathways and bridge and visiting the Rivendell spot used in the movie “Lord of the Rings”, having lunch, savouring picnic food and playing games.

The weekend break, fun and fellowship which have become part of the Philippine Embassy team’s schedule continue to strengthen greater understanding, team work, cooperation and commitment to excellence in their respective roles and responsibilities as well as closer ties among the children, family members and private staff.

As part of the Embassy’s sharing and caring spirit Ambassador Benavidez presents a WOW Magic Sing karaoke set to each member of the Philippine Embassy Team on a monthly basis. The WOW Magic Sing is used for enlivening the Embassy’s functions, promotes talents in singing and music and projects the tourism sceneries in the Philippines.