Kiwis woke up early and headed to services across the country to commemorate Anzac Day.
Today marks the 111th year since soldiers of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps landed on the rocky shores of Gallipoli, at what is now known as Anzac Cove, in Türkiye.
The campaign, which lasted eight months, claimed the lives of 2770 Kiwi soldiers and has since become a founding aspect of New Zealand's national identity.
Since it was first observed in 1915, Anzac Day has evolved into New Zealand and Australia's national day of remembrance for those who never came home.
Dawn services were held in almost every town and city this morning, at memorial monuments and RSAs. The National Commemoration will be held at Pukeahu National War Memorial Park in Wellington at 11am. There will also be a service in Türkiye, on the Gallipoli Peninsula.
"Anzac Day remains one of our most important civic occasions – a moment to honour the courage, sacrifice, and dedication shown by generations of New Zealanders in times of conflict," Governor-General Dame Cindy Kiro said in her Anzac Day message.
"This year, as we mark Anzac Day, we again reflect on the extraordinary service of those who have answered New Zealand’s call over the last century. Their stories remind us of the enduring cost of war and the deep imprint it leaves upon families, communities, and our collective memory."
"As we honour the service and sacrifice of our veterans, and of all those who continue to serve today, may we carry forward the values they embodied – courage, integrity, and a commitment to the well-being of others."
In his message, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon acknowledged defence and police personnel currently serving overseas.
"Their professionalism and compassion embody the values we honour today and reflect New Zealand’s longstanding commitment to peace, collective security, and multilateral cooperation," he said.
"Today, we honour all who have served and continue to serve."
In his comments, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said: “Across our continent, from the biggest cities to the smallest country town, and in every corner of the world made hallow by the sacrifice of our fallen, we gather in respect, reflection, gratitude and pride,” he said.
“We remember all who lived to keep fighting and all who finally made it home, but with the battle raging forever in their hearts.
“We reflect on all they went through and all they were up against, and we give thanks for the difference they made just when the world needed it most.”
Chief of the Defence Force Air Marshal Tony Davies said: “We remember those who, in moments of great uncertainty and danger, placed the needs of others above their own — not for recognition or reward, but because it was right to serve.
“That spirit was present on the shores of Gallipoli, carried through the hardships of two world wars, and sustained across decades of peacekeeping, conflict, and humanitarian service.
“We honour those who did not return, and we acknowledge the families who carry their absence still. Their sacrifice is woven into our national story and into our shared identity.”
He also said it was an important day, as it was the first time contemporary veterans were officially recognised as part of Anzac Day.
“Their service continues quietly, often unseen, yet always grounded in the same values of duty, courage, and commitment.
“Across generations, services, and missions, there is a bond that endures — a bond of shared purpose and shared sacrifice. It binds past to present, and it binds all who serve, in uniform and in support, to something greater than themselves.
“As we remember, may we also recommit — to service, to each other, and to the values that Anzac Day calls us to uphold.”
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