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."
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