On Anzac Eve, we came together.

For Anzac Eve, the Great Hall of the Soldiers' Memorial Church was filled to capacity and glowed red and gold. A night of remembrance. The music from the newly-installed sound system, the soaring 1905 pipe organ played by Helen Lukman-Fox, taonga puōro of Horomona Horo, bagpipes David Harvey, guitar and piano Ed Waaka, The Off Broadway Big Band with Michelle Thorne vocalist, and 400 voices in the pews!

Kaumātua Tautoko Witika gave an inspiring welcome, and Lieutenant Colonel Jones delivered a memorable address, asking us all to continue to say the names of those who have died in war. The theme was continued by Brian How, President of the 28th Māori Battalion Association Auckland, who shared what the 28th Māori Battalion still means to the people of Europe.  
Whaea Dolly Urlich, 100, together with Kaumātua Ron Baker unveiled the plaque of remembrance for the 28th Māori Battalion. The Ode was recited by Sir Bom Gillies KNZM, 100, the last member of the 28th Māori Battalion, together with Graham Judge, Chair of the Trust. 

We will Remember Them.

The photos below capture the evening, thanks to Jessica Chloe Photography.