Anzac Day Commemorative Evening Service and Field of Remembrance

This day serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by all those who fought and died in the pursuit of peace and freedom. The legacy of the Maori Battalion stands as a testament to the indomitable human spirit and the enduring values of courage, honour and solidarity in the face of adversity.

The Hobson Memorial Gate will be open from 4pm, and the Anzac Service will commence with a parade at 5pm up the Nias Tack by the Leadership Academy of A Company. Afterwards manuhiri are welcome to pay their respects in Te Rau Aroha. A Field of Remembrance consisting of close to 600 memorial crosses with the names of Māori service personnel killed in action and buried overseas will be laid on 22 April and remain in place two weeks post-Anzac Day. The Field of Remembrance will also be open to the public.

This years’ Service centres on the theme of Sacrifice and Service, paying tribute to the dedication of New Zealand veterans who have served in conflicts and peace keeping missions since the Second World War. Since WWII, our Defence Force has served with courage and commitment—from the Korean and Vietnam Wars to peacekeeping efforts in the Sinai, Bosnia, Timor-Leste and the Solomon Islands. In Afghanistan, New Zealand forces played a critical role in reconstruction and security, with ten personnel making the ultimate sacrifice. Today, the New Zealand Defence Force continues to respond to global challenges, including disaster relief, peacekeeping and maritime security. This ANZAC Day, Waitangi invites the public to reflect on the ongoing service of our veterans and reaffirm our shared commitment to peace.

- Friday 25 April, 5pm

- The Anzac Day Service at the Waitangi Treaty Grounds is a free public event.

- The gates at Hobson Memorial at the Upper Treaty Grounds open at 4pm.

- Parking is behind Te Whare Rūnanga on the Upper Grounds, 50m up from the Hobson Memorial on the right. Please look for the sign for Carpark A.

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