Anzac Day commemoration to appeal to all ages

15 April 2013

Anzac Day commemoration to appeal to all ages

Rotorua mayor Kevin Winters will host this year’s Anzac Day Civic Memorial Service and is extending an invitation to residents to join him in honouring New Zealand's servicemen and women.

The service, commemorating the 98th anniversary of the Gallipoli landings by New Zealand and Australian combined military forces, will be at the Rotorua Convention Centre at 9.30am on Thursday 25 April.

The key address will be given by Reporoa College head girl Brie Piggott and deputy head boy Kerry Power, while Father Mark Field will be the officiating minister.

Mayor Winters said he is encouraging locals and any visitors in town to attend the service to acknowledge the heroic efforts of the New Zealand and Australian military forces.

“It’s an important opportunity for people to come together to honour those who have gone before us and to whom we are indebted for the lifestyle and privileges we’re able to enjoy in this country today.”

Rotorua District Council major events coordinator Kylie Lang said the service will create an atmosphere with particular appeal for the city’s younger generation.

“The Anzac Day service will open with a ballad from local singer, Stella Maris. Events & Venues technical & safety manager Ray Philpot will perform a guitar solo during the service, with singing group ‘In Harmony’ finishing proceedings. Rotorua Brass and City of Rotorua Highland Pipe Band will provide music to hymns throughout the service.”

Slideshows of past and present New Zealand troops will be played throughout the service and during the entertainment.

The day's events start with the dawn parade at Ohinemutu at 5.45am. This will be followed by a parade of service personnel, school parties, cadet corps and local community groups, who will assemble at 8.50am at the Rotorua Lakefront at the intersection of Whakaue and Fenton streets. The parade will then march via Government Gardens before arriving at the Convention Centre at 9.20am in time for the 9.30am service.

ENDS

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