For the sixth year running, Maori Television will devote all of its Anzac Day programming to commemorating those who gave so much for our freedom.

ANZAC 2011 - KOTAHI TE WAIRUA (‘One Spirit’) airs from 5.50am to 11.30pm on Monday April 25 2011, the sixth year the channel has dedicated its whole schedule to this significant day. Maori Television’s Julian Wilcox will once again share hosting duties with Judy Bailey.

The day begins with a live dawn karakia, mihi and raising of the flag from the Devonport Naval Base, then moves to the Auckland War Memorial Dawn Service. Also on the programme are four must-see new documentaries. Nga Toa o te Moana-Nui-A-Kiwa The Warriors of the Pacific: Solomon Islands and Nga Toa o te Moana-Nui-A-Kiwa The Warriors of the Pacific: Papua New Guinea reveal the untold stories of what happened in both countries as the Allies fought Japanese forces in World War Two.

Dancing in the Sky (by Julian Arahanga, who played Nig in Once Were Warriors) follows the extraordinary life of William Rhodes-Moorhouse, the first airman to earn a Victoria Cross. Baptism by Fire (directed by Tiwai Reedy) sees the reunion after 40 years of six soldiers who were involved in a Viet Cong ambush during the Vietnam War. Their successful battle against all odds is revealed in this compelling account told for the first time.

Dispersed throughout the day are fascinating vignettes in which New Zealanders recount their tales of passion, bravery, humour and sacrifice. The evening is dedicated to entertainment and comedy as entertainer Chris Powley and friends present an evening of classic Maori showband nostalgia.

As in previous years, Maori Television airs the ANZAC Address, this year delivered by Sir Wira Gardiner, who had a 20-year Army career before becoming founding director of the Waitangi Tribunal.

ENDS

© Scoop Media