A large crowd flocked to the Whanganui War Memorial Centre for the 2024 Anzac day service this morning. Photo / Bevan Conley
A large crowd flocked to the Whanganui War Memorial Centre for the 2024 Anzac day service this morning. Photo / Bevan Conley
A large crowd gathered this morning for Whanganui’sAnzac Day service, to acknowledge New Zealanders who have fought in wars and international conflicts.
Approximately 1500 people were at the Whanganui War Memorial Centre for the service in overcast, mild weather.
In his address, Returned and Services’ Association WelfareTrust president Robert Allen recognised those soldiers who served in conflicts following World War I and World War II, such as the Vietnam War, Korean War and Malayan War.
In Chaplain Rosemary Anderson’s speech, she acknowledged the Anzac spirit, and the duty to strive for lasting peace.
“Today our world is trembling on the rim of an escalating conflict in the Middle East and Ukraine,” she said.
“I was remembering all my old mates who have gone before me,” he said.
The Wanganui Aero Club conducted a fly-past of four planes at the start of the service, followed later by two RNZAF helicopters.
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Image 1 of 23: Whanganui ANZAC day service at Whanganui Memorial Hall. Photo / Bevan Conley
School student Ella Catchpole said her favourite part of the service was the wreath-laying.
“I really enjoyed it. It was quite sad, but it’s good that we are doing this to remember.”
Harnett said there had been a lot of discussion about the time change of the service from dawn to 7am, but he felt it was something Whanganui should stick with.
“It was definitely warmer and it was a more pleasant experience for those older veterans.
“It means a lot to me, especially being in the military.”
The Whanganui Highland Pipe Band performed during the wreath-laying ceremony.
Eva de Jong is a reporter for the Whanganui Chronicle covering health stories and general news. She began as a reporter in 2023.
