Thousands gather at Mount Maunganui for Anzac Day dawn service

Sunrises over the gathering at the Mount cenotaph. Photo / Tom Eley

Thousands of people gathered in the dark at the beachfront Mount Maunganui cenotaph to commemorate this year’s Anzac Day.

Former and current service people, emergency services, and cadets paraded to the sound of bagpipes.

The parade enters the cenotaph grounds in Mount Maunganui. Photo / Tom Eley

The surrounding beachfront reserve and Mount Drury were filled with crowds of people, young and old, as a bugler played the Reveille while the sun rose over the ocean.

A moment of silence was observed as the sun started to rise over the gathering.

Mount Maunganui RSA president Greg Baxter said we remember those who answered the call and to protect our country.

Sunrises over the gathering at the Mount cenotaph. Photo / Tom Eley

For former warrant officer Noel Guinness, Anzac Day was a time to pay tribute to his father and brother. He woke at 2am to prepare for the service.

“It takes me that long to get ready,” he said.

Former warrant officer Noel Guinness. Photo / David Hall

Both the New Zealand and Australian national anthems were observed.

During the service Chaplain Marie Gilpin read a scripture and led a prayer.

Before the commemoration began the cadet sentinels responsible for guarding the cenotaph could be seen rehearsing their important role.

The cadet sentinels rehearse before Mount Maunganui's dawn service. Photo / Tom Eley

Dusty Roper of the Western Bay of Plenty Cadet Unit. Photo / David Hall

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