Politics

'This peninsula of war is now a place of friendship'

16:27 pm on 25 April 2017

New Zealand's friendship with Turkey is an example for those in conflict, the Justice Minister Amy Adams has told a dawn service in Gallipoli.

More than 200 New Zealanders have registered as being in Turkey for Anzac Day commemorations, where Ms Adams is New Zealand's official representative.

Look back on RNZ's live coverage of Anzac Day here.

In her speech, Ms Adams thanked the Turkish people "who stand vigil at the graves of our men".

Minister of Justice Amy Adams speaks at the Anzac day dawn service in Gallipoli. Photo: AFP

"This peninsula of war is now a place of friendship and healing. It's proof that enemies can become the truest of friends. That we have more in common than that which divides us."

She said she hoped it would inspire those in conflict around the world where "deep-rooted hatred seems impossible to overcome".

"May they turn to Gallipoli and see what can become of their bitterness."

Ms Adams also paid tribute to the first Anzac troops who began landing in Gallipoli on this day 102 years ago.

"That the mission at Gallipoli failed in no way undoes what the Anzacs accomplished here or the great bravery and devotion to duty they displayed," she told the crowd.

"In fact, it makes their suffering and achievements all the more poignant."

Ms Adams also acknowleged the Australians who suffered, calling them New Zealand's closest friends.

"The Aussies were our mates. They, too, were far from home. They stood with us shoulder-to-shoulder, under fire, doing what had to be done."