Every year on 25 April in New Zealand, workplaces and schools close in recognition of those who serve and have served New Zealand in times of war, conflict and disaster, but also in remembrance of a specific World War I campaign that happened over a hundred years ago at Gallipoli.
On 25 April 1915, around 20,000 soldiers of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC) landed on the Gallipoli Peninsula in what is now Türkiye. Turkish resistance was strong as Ottoman soldiers fought to protect their homeland, and their attack from higher ground with heavy artillery was ultimately successful in preventing any significant Allied advance.
There were some moments of success for the Allied forces, such as a now-famous New Zealand effort that briefly captured some high ground at Chunuk Bair. However, for the most part, it was eight long months of incredibly harsh living conditions and devastating battles against the Ottoman forces.
The Allies made the decision to withdraw, and all troops were evacuated from Gallipoli by early January 1916. By that time, more than 130,000 men had died, including more than 8,700 Australians and 2,779 New Zealanders. (Data from nzhistory.govt.nz)
Why was this campaign so important to us?
The Gallipoli campaign was New Zealand’s first significant international battle in World War I. Those who fought as part of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps were said to have shown great courage, commitment, comradeship and integrity. These are qualities New Zealanders were proud to accept as part of our national character. It created a high bar of conduct, one that many New Zealanders aspire to, and it is why we are proud to continue to think of ourselves as 'Anzacs'.
The day became an official public holiday in New Zealand in 1920 to commemorate those who gave their lives in World War I for ‘the Empire’. The focus has long since widened to include the many who have served New Zealand in other wars, conflicts and disasters, recognising that the Anzac spirit we celebrated after World War I has endured, and that the people who have served since also deserve to be honoured.
Emblems of remembrance
The timing of the dawn parade on Anzac Day reflects the early morning landing of the first ANZAC troops at Gallipoli. The dawn parade makes visible to the community those who serve and have served, even though their service may have taken place far from our shores.
A wreath is laid, containing poppies which symbolise the sacrifice of bloodshed. After hymns or songs and solemn readings, the Last Post is played, followed by one minute’s silence. The Last Post is a traditional military bugle call once used to signify the end of day; at military funerals, it signals that a soldier has gone to their final rest and on Anzac Day, it is a final farewell to all the fallen.
The impact of Anzac Day for you may be because you or your family felt first-hand the devastation of the loss of loved ones in service, or have someone who serves or has served, or it may be that you have learnt of the historic actions of others and want to take pride in the name Anzac and the courage and tenacity that word has come to represent. However you come to Anzac Day, come prepared to honour the past, the present and the future of the Anzac spirit.
ANZAC Day commemorations
At the time of printing, some Anzac Day commemoration times hadn’t been finalised. Please check with your local RSA, the national website rsa.org.nz, or your local community groups, for confirmed details closer to the date.
Birkenhead War Memorial Park, Mahara Ave
Parade: Unconfirmed at time of printing
Service: Unconfirmed at time of printing
Browns Bay War Memorial, Manly Esplanade
Combined North Shore RSA Dawn Parade and Service
Parade: Fall in 5.15am, corner of Anzac Road and Beachfront Lane, Browns Bay
Service: 6am at the War Memorial, Manly Esplanade
East Coast Bays Memorial Parade and Service
Parade: Fall in 8am, corner of Anzac Road and Beachfront Lane, Browns Bay
Service: 8.45am at War Memorial, Manly Esplanade
Devonport War Memorial, King Edward Parade
Parade: 10.45am, from Fleet Street. Service: 11am
Glenfield War Memorial Hall, Hall Road, Glenfield
Parade: 11.20am from Ross Road into Hall Road, Service: 11.30am
