Wind loudly buffeted the hall where wreaths were laid near a statue named 'Mother and Children', representing families left behind during wartime. Photo: RNZ / Angus Dreaver
A much-reduced national service for Anzac Day took place in Wellington on Thursday after high winds caused the cancellation of the scheduled wreath laying.
Organisers cancelled the outside service at Pukeahu National War Memorial Park 36 minutes before it was due to start over fears that winds gusting up to 109km/h could injure veterans and guests.
The Ministry of Culture and Heritage also called off the Atatürk Memorial wreath-laying Service at Strathmore.
A commemoration was held in the Hall of Memories under the cenotaph with around 100 special guests, including veterans, the Governor-General and representatives from Australia and Türkiye.
Wind loudly buffeted the hall where wreaths were laid near a statue named 'Mother and Children', representing families left behind during wartime.
"We're seeing wind gusts getting up to 59 knots, 109km/h. It's getting close to warning criteria so it's expected to remain beneath," MetService meteorologist Dan Corrigan said earlier.
The strong winds also caused the cancellation of flights. By late afternoon at least 22 flights had been cancelled at Wellington Airport.
Airport spokesperson Phil Rennie said passengers should contact their airline to ensure their bookings were going ahead.
Photo: RNZ/Angus Dreaver
Governor-General Dame Cindy Kiro said the focus of Anzac Day had broadened to recognise all those who served in war or global peacekeeping, and she said in war zones around the world families often suffer.
She said New Zealand forces had been involved in international peacekeeping efforts for decades, and a legacy of courage began at Gallipoli.
Dame Cindy Kiro at a stripped-back Anzac Day service in the Hall of Memories, Wellington, 25 April 2024. Photo: RNZ / Angus Dreaver
Major General Martyn Dunne from the Royal New Zealand Returned Services' Association began the national ceremony with the requiem. He said Anzac Day was a time to remember all those who served New Zealand in times of war. He acknowledged those who were currently serving around the globe, including those assisting Ukraine.
The Pukeahu National War Memorial Park pays tribute to all those killed in service to New Zealand. The walls are adorned with the New Zealand coat of arms, flags, and remembrance plaques. Daylight shines into the building through stained glass windows.
Wind loudly buffeted the hall where wreaths were laid near a statue named 'Mother and Children', representing families left behind during wartime. Photo: RNZ / Angus Dreaver