The Anzac spirit has taught New Zealanders many things; endurance, courage, ingenuity, good humour and mateship. We look to these qualities to unite us all.
Anzac Day
Is a national commemoration observed on April 25 each year. It’s a day of remembrance for the fallen of all wars and acknowledges the sacrifice of returned and current servicemen and women, past and present. It specifically marks the anniversary of the landing of the first Australian and New Zealand soldiers, the Anzacs (Anzac is the acronym for Australian and New Zealand Army Corps) on the Gallipoli Peninsula, Türkiye in 1915. Gallipoli was the site of New Zealand’s first major battle of World War One with the tragic loss of over 8,700 Australian and 2,700 New Zealand soldiers' lives.
A Brief History of Anzac Day
New Zealanders have marked the landings at Gallipoli since news of the event first reached our shores. Over time there have been changes in the way that Anzac Day is commemorated, reflecting the changing features and concerns of New Zealand society. Today, Anzac Day promotes a sense of unity and is a time for the nation to pay respects and acknowledge the many thousands of our military people who are serving or have served, who are called upon to support New Zealand in times of war, conflict, and disasters.
We Will Remember Them
In 2023 everyone will be able to gather nationwide and globally to mark the anniversary. However, no matter the location on the 25th of April New Zealanders around the world will remember them.
How to Get Involved