Anzac Day

Anzac Day is a National Day of Commemoration observed on 25 April each year. It commemorates those who died serving New Zealand during war while honouring returned and current servicemen and women, past and present.

In 1936 Whanganui was the first city in New Zealand to hold a dawn service.

The council and our local RSA have come together to bring you a parade and service on the forecourt of the Whanganui War Memorial Centre, Pukenamu Queen’s Park, and other commemorative services at Pākaraka, Pākaitore (Moutoa Gardens) and Brunswick.

Service information

Whanganui War Memorial Centre Service

All ex-service personnel, members of the RSA Women’s Section, all kindred associations and members of the public are invited to assemble outside Davis Library, Pukenamu Queen’s Park, at 6.15am sharp and parade to the Whanganui War Memorial Centre forecourt to take part in the Service of Commemoration at 7.00am.

Please note the service will begin at 7.00am following the parade to the forecourt. This is a later start time than usual.

Refreshments

At the conclusion of the service a warm invitation is extended to all those participating to tea and coffee on the War Memorial Centre forecourt or to partake of the traditional coffee or rum and coffee at Club Metro, Ridgway Street.

Laying of Wreaths

All organisations and schools, who have traditionally laid wreaths, are invited to march in the parade. Any organisation or person wishing to lay a wreath please contact the RSA at welfare@wanganuirsa.co.nz

Other services

Pākaraka service – 9.30am service at Waitotara County War Memorial

28th Māori Battalion Anzac service – 11.00am service at Pākaitore (Moutoa Gardens)

Brunswick service – 10.00am service at Brunswick War Memorial opposite Brunswick Hall