'Every Anzac Day, we are reminded of the extraordinary courage and selflessness shown by all those who have served their fellow New Zealanders – both at home and abroad. And as we pay our respects this morning, let us also reaffirm our commitment to a future where we may all live freely, in dignity and peace.'
This was the conclusion of the address given by the Rt Hon Dame Helen Winkelmann, Administrator of the Government, at this morning’s Anzac Day Dawn Service. After the moving service at Pukeahu National War Memorial Park, Dame Helen met with some veterans who were part of the thousands gathered in Te Whanganui-a-Tara to pay their respects.
Later on in the morning morning, Dame Helen attended the Anzac Day National Commemoration at Pukeahu. Distinguished guests and members of the public lay wreaths and poppies at the Tomb of the Unknown Warrior, while the New Zealand Youth Choir sang beautifully throughout the service.
You can find more images from the Dawn Service here and the National Commemoration here. And you can find Dame Helen's address at Dawn here and at the National Commemoration here.