Ninja Knits co-ordinator Wendy Pedersen at the entrance to the Tauranga RSA in Greerton. Photo / Brydie Thompson
Ninja Knits co-ordinator Wendy Pedersen at the entrance to the Tauranga RSA in Greerton. Photo / Brydie Thompson
A vibrant display of bright red knitted poppies will grace the entrance of Tauranga RSA, adding a poignant touch to Anzac Day commemorations.
The poppies, created by Tauranga’s Ninja Knits group, will flow along either side of the pathway at the organisation’s frontdoors, just steps away from the Tauranga RSA Cenotaph, where today’s dawn service and parade will take place.
The Ninja Knits group, known for their community-driven knitting projects, adorned a Tauranga South tree with knitted poppies last year.
This year their focus has shifted to enhancing the entrance of the returned services organisation which has a long history, founded in 1918.
“We initially planned to display the poppies on Cameron Rd but the RSA has requested they be placed along the walkway leading into their building,” Ninja Knits co-ordinator Wendy Pedersen said.
The poppy installation serves as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by those who served and died in wars, encapsulating the sentiment of ‘Lest We Forget’.
It also underscores the mission of Tauranga RSA, which provides support, advocacy and camaraderie to current and former members of the New Zealand Defence Force, their families and descendants.
“What a fantastic idea and tribute to the veterans departed and surviving,” Tauranga RSA president Morton Anderson said.
“I commend the group for their endeavour.”
Knitted poppies and wreaths made by Ninja Knits members on display at Tauranga RSA in Greerton. Photo / Chrissy Morgan.
The RSA building, located in Greerton, sits next to the Tauranga RSA Cenotaph, where the Anzac Day service and parade will begin at 5.45am.
After the commemoration, attendees will be invited to walk through the striking display of red poppies and enjoy a cooked breakfast in the RSA’s restaurant.
