Should Antipodeans avoid Gallipoli on Anzac Day?

Anzac Day 2005: Buses clog the Gallipoli Peninsula as far as the eye can see. Photo / Mark Mitchell

The national president of New Zealand's RSA, Robin Klitscher, says backpackers would better respect the Anzacs by steering clear of Gallipoli on April 25.

Klitcher says the thousands of New Zealanders and Australians making the annual pilgrimage are a huge imposition to the Turkish authorities.

A new Lonely Planet guide also advises against visiting Gallipoli on Anzac Day, saying the annual influx of Antipodeans is damaging the peninsula.

Note: The Auckland War Memorial Museum's offical Book of Remembrance can be read online. It alllows people to send their messages and memories of loved ones who have served in past wars or to people currently serving in the armed forces.