Services to support celebrations
AUCKLAND: The New Zealand Defence Force will be out in full force on Anzac Day as its personnel support more than 300 civic and community events around the world.
The Chief of Defence Force, Lieutenantgeneral Tim Keating, said personnel would also represent the NZDF at Anzac Dayrelated events in more than 35 countries around the world, including Belgium, France and Turkey, on April 25.
They will also be at services throughout New Zealand.
‘‘Although Anzac Day has its origin in the First World War, we now remember the service and sacrifice of all personnel who have served in New Zealand’s interests,’’ Ltgen Keating said.
‘‘We also reflect on the NZDF contribution to peacekeeping and stability around the world, especially for our personnel serving in the United Nations Truce Supervision Organisation, which marks its 70th anniversary this year.’’
Eight NZDF personnel are serving as part of UNTSO in the Middle East, working as military observers in the Golan Heights, Jerusalem and southern Lebanon.
A service from Gallipoli will be livestreamed on the NZDF Facebook page on Anzac Day, at 8.30pm New Zealand time.
Tauranga will host the Royal New Zealand Navy ship HMNZS Hawea for commemorations. RNZAF aircraft will conduct flypasts in some places. — NZN