"The commemoration will remember the service and sacrifice of those who fought and those who kept the home fires burning. It will acknowledge the horrific loss suffered by the nation. It will also look to recapture the jubilation and hopefulness that swept many parts of the world 100 years ago," Acting Minister for Arts, Culture and Heritage Carmel Sepuloni said today.
When news of the armistice reached New Zealand on November 12, 1918, celebrations were widespread.
The Wairarapa Daily Times reported: "Masterton literally went mad yesterday ... whistles screeched out, bells rang, people cheered and screeched with joy, bands played, and there was a scene in Queen St such as never before has been recorded."
Similar scenes were repeated in communities across the country.
Two minutes' silence will be held at 11am on November 11, and it was hoped that at the breaking of the silence those jubilant scenes would be recreated around the country.
Armistice Day commemorations will be held around the world. French President Emmanuel Macron is understood to be inviting world leaders to events there. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern will not attend but her office said another minister would represent New Zealand.
The Government allocated an additional $400,000 to the First World War Centenary Programme, WW100, in this year's Budget for the commemorations.
