Defence Force in for ‘reduced role’ at Gallipoli

The New Zealand Defence Force was likely to play a reduced role in the Anzac Day dawn service at Gallipoli today after losing luggage on the trip to Turkey.

The baggage was lost as the contingent flew through Dubai, which had been hit with unprecedented flooding, causing the airport to suffer massive disruptions.

It would be the first time New Zealand has not had a ceremonial presence at the Gallipoli service. All uniforms and the band’s instruments were missing, meaning out of respect and protocol they would not be able to take part alongside Australia and Turkey.

NZ embassy staff in Ankara managed to retrieve some of the luggage, but it included just one band instrument and some dress uniforms, the NZDF said.

NZDF Gallipoli lead John McLeod said it was disappointing for the personnel involved and all event staff. The contingent would evaluate what had and hadn’t arrived before deciding how it might take part and how the New Zealand Chunuk Bair service would be delivered, the NZDF said.

Efforts had failed to source musical instruments locally, McLeod said.

The contingent’s vocalist would sing anthems without accompaniment and the Māori cultural group would sing waiata with the support of a guitar, he said.

The bulk of the group had arrived in Turkey with just their carry-on, but had been able to buy clothing and other items. “It had still been an emotional and reflective experience for the contingent, with many having personal and family connections to this special place.”

Dubai International Airport had found 35 of the 65 missing bags, and the Defence Force said it had received the first of those bags.