Emphasising the importance of science to New Zealand’s future, the Prime Minister welcomed Professor Gerrard to the role and said she looked forward to working with her. She also commented on having a woman in the country’s top science job, saying Professor Gerrard would serve as a role model to young women considering science as a career. Vice-Chancellor Professor Stuart McCutcheon welcomed the Prime Minister to the University and Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research) Professor Jim Metson also spoke briefly. After the formalities were over the Prime Minister visited the University’s visualisation lab, briefly trying on a virtual-reality headset and talking to staff about their work and the facilities available at the University.Professor Gerrard’s daughter Leigh and her research group also attended the event. She takes up the role on 1 July.