Commemorative services are planned throughout Porirua for Anzac Day.
Anzac Day is observed in New Zealand on 25 April to recognise those who have died in the service of their country and to honour returned and current servicemen and servicewomen.
Two dawn services are planned to start the day, at the Porirua RSA in McKillop St (6am) and the Titahi Bay RSA (6.30am).
Later the Porirua Civic Service will be held at the Peace Memorial at Te Rauparaha Park, starting with a march from Hagley St at 8.45am, followed by morning tea inside Te Rauparaha Arena.
The civic service will be livestreamed on Facebook, for those unable to make it or if they prefer to watch from home.
Commemorations are also planned at St Alban’s Church, Pāuatahanui, 10.15am, Takapūwāhia Marae and Titahi Bay, both from 10.30am, and Pukerua Bay Community Hall, 11am, followed by a wreath-laying ceremony at Whenua Tapu Cemetery at 12 noon. A service will also be held at Waitangirua Community Park on Warspite Ave from 1pm.
Porirua Mayor Anita Baker says Anzac Day is an important time to reflect and remember those who have served and were lost in conflict.
“I’ve always looked forward to the dawn parade and Porirua’s civic ceremony – it’s a chance to come together, and I especially love seeing how many young people attend them.
“It’s about pride and nationhood, and our tamariki understand that now more than ever.”
Since 1916, services have been held around the country to mark the landing of Australian and New Zealand soldiers at Gallipoli in Turkey on 25 April 1915, acknowledging the sacrifices and hardships made there and in subsequent conflicts around the world.
For more information about all the services happening on the day, visit poriruacity.govt.nz/anzac-day
11 Apr 2023
