Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has sent a message to the country to commemorate Anzac Day.
E rere ana ngā whakaaro ki te tahatū o te rangi, kia mihia aku rangatira. Tō ana te marino puta noa i ngā motu i tā rātou i utu ai. Kei wareware, kei wareware. Tēnā tātou.
I extend my greetings to everybody commemorating Anzac Day today. Across the nation, while we cannot gather in person, we join in spirit as we remember the service and sacrifice of New Zealanders in times of war and crisis.
Many New Zealanders have been affected by war or know somebody who has. Returned and current service personnel, friends and families of the fallen, New Zealanders who have come to start a new life here as refugees – through Anzac Day we are all connected.
It is a day to reflect on the many ways in which war has shaped our communities, and the myriad different perspectives and experiences among us.
Anzac Day 2020 has a special significance, because this year marks the 75th anniversary of the end of the Second World War. There are still some in our communities who served in that war and I hope New Zealanders will reach out in our thoughts to these brave veterans who were part of the fight against tyranny.We are privileged also to have still among us veterans from J-Force, from Malaya, Korea and Vietnam, as well as from subsequent conflicts and peacekeeping efforts.
I have spoken before of the deep concern we must all share that so many nations still face threats to the security and welfare of their people. This year a new threat faces all nations as the impact of the coronavirus deepens worldwide.
As we face these significant challenges, we remember the courage of those who have served in the name of peace and justice. And we remember the responsibility we all share to look after each other in difficult times, to make Aotearoa a place that stands up at home and in the international community for the values of inclusiveness, kindness and compassion.
Anzac Day is a time to reflect on the contribution made by each and every New Zealander who has served in war and conflict. Over the decades it has become a time also to reflect on who we are as a nation, and the values that we stand for.
I encourage all New Zealanders to connect in thought and remembrance on this special day, and to help ensure our many stories continue to be told.
