Greetings, Kia ora, Kia orana, Fakatalofa atu, Talofa Ni --- to which can be added Nei Ho and Ni Hao.

　　It is with pleasure that I provide the foreword for Warwick Brown's book of Sean Chen's artwork, Auckland Landmarks.

　　Soon after I was sworn in as Governor-General, the Chinese community welcomed me to my new role with a function in Auckland. During that function, I was presented with Chen's painting, Downtown with Skytower. The painting (Plate 57 in this book), appropriately hangs with pride at Government House in Auckland.

　　Combining his own striking use of colour, brush strokes and a considerable dash of humour, Sean Chen brings his personal and idiosyncratic view of Auckland and its distinctive landmarks to the fore.

　　Chen's art not only reflects a triumph over adversity, caused by the rigours of the Cultural Revolution, but is also a further example of how people of Chinese descent have added value to New Zealand's economy, society and culture.

　　Warwick Brown whose husbandry of art and writings have been a source of encouragement to many, including Sean Chen, has written in a complimentary, supportive and educative manner.

　　It is appropriate then that his book should be launched in the Year of Rat, when hard work is said to be rewarded, for the art within this book reflects considerable industry on Chen's behalf.

　　It is with pleasure then that I congratulate the artist on this fascinating collection and the author for the sagacious commentary on the works. I wish the publication well.

　　No reira, tena koutou, tena koutou, kia ora, kia kaha, tena koutou katoa.