Mayor Tim Macindoe is inviting Hamiltonians to come together at Memorial Park on Saturday 25 April to mark Anzac Day with dawn and civic services.
Mayor Macindoe said Anzac Day remains one of the most important moments of collective remembrance for the city.
“Anzac Day is a time for us to honour the courage and sacrifice of all who served, especially those who paid the ultimate price for our freedom and the values we hold dear.
“It has been heartening to see such large numbers attending in recent years, including from young people. These ceremonies give us a chance to reflect together and ensure the service of our military personnel is remembered and honoured."
This year marks the 111th year of Anzac Day commemoration. Mayor Macindoe said the services provide an opportunity for people of all ages to pause and reflect.
Dawn service
The dawn service begins at 6am, with the parade leaving from the corner of Victoria Street and Anzac Parade at 5.50am. The service will finish at around 6.50am.
After the service, the Hamilton Community Gospel Choir and Salvation Army Band will perform at the Cenotaph.
Civic service
The civic service begins at 10am, with the civic parade leaving the corner of Anzac Parade and Memorial Drive at 9.50am. The service will finish at around 11.15am.
Following the civic service, the Hamilton Brass Band and the Hamilton Community Gospel Choir will perform.
Both services will proceed regardless of the weather. Large screens will be available across Memorial Park so attendees can see and hear the services clearly. The services will also be livestreamed on the Council website.
A display of thousands of poppies will be installed at the corner of Memorial Drive and Anzac Parade, and the Fields of Remembrance Trust will place 350 white crosses in Memorial Park to acknowledge the Hamiltonians lost in conflict. The poppies will be installed on Friday 24 April and removed after the Civic Service on Anzac Day. The crosses will remain until Sunday 26 April.
Road closures
The following roads will be closed on Saturday 25 April between 5am and 1pm:
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Memorial Drive from Anzac Parade
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Anzac Parade between Victoria Street and Grey Street
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Victoria Street between Knox Street and Anzac Parade.
Further information
For more details about the event, visit hamilton.govt.nz/anzacday.