Ex United States President Bill Clinton visits the gallery Sat, 01 Jun 2002

Former United States President Mr Bill Clinton made a suprise visit to our gallery yesterday, much to the delight of us all, Parnell shoppers and locals. During his visit the President commented on the friendliness of Aucklanders and went on to say that New Zealand art was as good as anywhere in the world. He loved the gallery.

The President, along with a large group of security and media representitives arrived around 1pm. It is thought that the weather played some part in his visit, as a game of golf was cancelled because of the blustering winds.

The presidential party purchased an original work by Simon Williams and another piece was gifted by the gallery to Mr Clinton's daughter Chelsea.

The former President was here for 48 hours as the guest of BMW to launch their new 7 Series vehicle. He delivered an entertaining and informative speech at a prestigious dinner held at the Hilton Hotel.

The last time Mr Clinton visited Auckland was for Apec in 1999. Although he shopped in Parnell during that visit he was not able to visit the gallery during that time.

Pictured from left: Frances Davies, Jenny O'Warn, Mr Bill Clinton, Nicola Beechey & Richard Thomson.