Gallipoli: Wellington formally symbolises bond with Turkish town

The Ottomans never wanted a war - and at Gallipoli they suffered twice the number of fatalities. The soldier in the white uniform is modern Turkey's founder, Ataturk. Photo / Supplied

One hundred years on from World War I, Wellington and the Turkish town of Canakkale will formally symbolise a friendly future.

Wellington City Council today announced its partnership with Canakkale in a historical sister city relationship.

The arrangement would commemorate the centenary of World War I, and honour the friendship between the people of New Zealand and Turkey.

Turkey's Ambassador to New Zealand, Damla Yesim Say, wrote to Wellington Mayor Celia Wade-Brown to propose the relationship after informal discussions.

Ms Wade-Brown said the relationship would allow Wellington to honour its history and friendship with the people of Turkey.

Ms Say said the sister city relationship would serve as yet another testament to how Turkey and New Zealand had built a new friendship out of "the embers of a horrible war".

"All the fallen in Gallipoli are all our grandfathers, and we are proof for posterity that people who once fought as enemies can proudly stand shoulder to shoulder today in remembrance of their grandfathers' sacrifice, and in celebration of their friendship."

Ms Say said when Governor-General Sir Jerry Mateparae visited Turkey in April 2014, discussions took place with Governor of Canakkale, Ahmet Cinar, over the establishment of the sister city relationship.

Earlier this month, Mr Cinar assured New Zealanders travelling to Gallipoli that they would be safe from terrorism at centenary commemorations.

He said Canakkale was one of the most "secure places in the world".

Authorities in the area had experience from previous years, and similar security measures would be in place at centenary celebrations, he said.

"Security-wise, all kinds of precautions, all kind of measures have been taken," he said. "There won't be any risk."

Following the announcement, the Wellington City Council will sign a memorandum of understanding with the Canakkale Municipality, to formalise the relationship.