The Waitangi National Trust, in partnership with the 28 (Māori) Battalion Taitokerau Association (A Coy), are hosting an Anzac Day Commemoration Evening Service at the Upper Treaty Grounds. The 28 (Māori) Battalion has a special connection with the Waitangi Treaty Grounds as the soldiers were present at the Centennial of the Treaty signing in 1940 before going to war in Africa and Europe.

The Anzac Evening Service starts at 5pm with a parade up the Nias Track by the Leadership Academy of A Company, followed by He Tikanga Karakia He Tohu Whakamaharatanga / Anzac Day Commemorative Service in front of Te Whare Rūnanga. A Field of Remembrance consisting of 569 memorial crosses with the names of Māori service personnel killed in action and buried overseas will be laid on 22 April and will remain in place for visitors to view two weeks post-Anzac Day.

This year’s programme centres on the themes of sacrifice and service, paying tribute to the dedication of New Zealand veterans who have served in conflicts and peacekeeping missions since the Second World War. Since 1945, 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.

Anzac Day allows the opportunity to acknowledge the contributions of all New Zealanders' during times of war. Men, women and children all played their part either on the front line or on the Home Front supporting those who went to war while ensuring the country, marae and whānau were in the best shape possible. More information on the Māori Home Front can be found inside Te Rau Aroha Museum of the Price of Citizenship.

CEO of the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, Ben Dalton, said “as our nation broadens its awareness of the scope and nature of service, we are honoured to offer our annual Anzac service as a way of

acknowledging the contribution of all those that have served our nation and the deep enduring connections with the Waitangi Treaty Grounds.”

The Anzac Day Evening Service at the Waitangi Treaty Grounds is a free public event. The gates at Hobson Memorial at the Upper Treaty Grounds open at 4pm. Kai is available for purchase before and after the service.

Ka maumahara tonu tātou ki a rātou

We will remember them.

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