Thousands gather in NZ, Gallipoli

Thousands gathered nationwide and at Gallipoli in Turkey yesterday for Anzac Day dawn services.

There were solemn messages of hope in light of conflicts around the globe and poignant reflection for men and women who had made the ultimate sacrifice for their country.

At Gallipoli Justice Minister Amy Adams told crowds the friendship between New Zealand and Turkey could inspire those in conflict today.

“For those men who came ashore here, few could have imagined that a century later we might gather in this place, not as adversaries but as friends,” Adams said, speaking as the Government’s representative.

“That the very enemy they were fighting might one day host scores of New Zealanders who travelled halfway around the globe to honour their fight.”

She said Anzac Day was proof that enemies could become friends.

“We hope it inspires those conflicts around the world where deep-rooted hatred seems impossible to overcome,” she said.

“May they turn to Gallipoli and see what can become of their bitterness.”

In Wellington about 2000 people turned out at the Pukeahu National War Memorial Park.

Officials including the Australian High Commissioner, the Australian and New Zealand secretaries of defence and the Turkish ambassador attended the ceremony.

Dame Patsy Reddy addressed the crowds in her first Anzac Day service since becoming Governor-General.

Australian secretary of defence Dennis Richardson was attending his first Anzac in New Zealand. He said it was also a day of thanks and quiet reflection on how lucky New Zealand and Australia are.

But a silent protest marred the day for some, as peace activists chose the day to make a political point.

They held banners reminding those gathered about war crimes allegations made in Nicky Hager’s book Hit & Run, released in March.

Photos of victims allegedly killed by New Zealand troops were laid at the war memorial.