“There are several smaller memorials but there is no significant public place where all 257 names are displayed, and where people can gather to remember and have special times of contemplation, prayer and reflection,” he says.
Dr Waugh will begin today’s meeting with a prayer of remembrance and says the PM plans to hear stories from relatives.
“In all our discussions with Erebus families, it came through loud and clear that they were very much hoping for a memorial which would be elegant, accessible and not in a cemetery.
“The location in Auckland’s Parnell Rose Gardens will be a very appropriate place.”
The Government will spend $3 million on the memorial, hoped to be completed by May 2020, Auckland Council will provide the land.
“The plan was to have the memorial completed for the 40th anniversary but it is going to overshoot the date by a few months because of the magnitude of the project.
“While missing the 40th anniversary is regrettable, it is so important to get it right.”
A design for the memorial will be chosen from public submissions, which closed at the weekend.
Dr Waugh encourages Erebus family members to stay connected by registering at www.erebusnationalmemorial.nz
