Remembering the Anzacs

 

From the first tremor of the bagpipes to the final lingering note of The Last Post, Anzac Day at Hakaru RSA proved again to be a poignant and reflective ceremony attended by hundreds of locals and guests. 

Under a sunny autumn sky, the large crowd gathered on April 25 to honour and remember the many servicemen and women who dedicated their lives to their country and especially to the fallen. All eyes watched in revered silence as wreaths were laid from veterans of the Malaysian, Korean and Vietnam wars, and representatives from NZ Army, Navy, Police, Fire Brigade and St John. 

Other community services also paid their respects including Kaipara District Council, Zonta Mangawhai, Women’s RSA and local youth organisations Mangawhai Army Cadets, Scouts, St John Cadets, schools, sports clubs and Hakaru Pony Club.

Among the prayers, poems and national anthems, a special tribute was also given to victims of terrorism including those killed in the March 15 Christchurch massacre, with a plea for peace, tolerance and inclusion, may we never forget. 

- JULIA WADE