In collaboration with the RSA, Auckland’s Harbour Bridge is set to join more than 80 events across the region in paying tribute those who served their country in WWI and other conflicts.
Then for Anzac Day itself on Wednesday 25 April, a stunning light and sound show will play from 5.00am until 6.30am to coincide with dawn services; and again from 6.00pm until midnight.
The Vector Lights animation references a journey across water - of a civilian travelling to war and back again. Look for nods to the Maori Battalion, the Southern Cross, the silver fern and, of course, a field of poppies in the wind.
The lighting design will be accompanied by “Sons of Gallipoli” as sung by the Auckland Boys Choir, followed by the Last Post. Listen to the soundtrack at vector.co.nz/lights. The show is 3.5minutes long, and will be followed by a minute’s silence before playing again.
“The Auckland RSA is thrilled to have our iconic Auckland Bridge illuminated for the first time ever with the Poppy, our equally iconic symbol of remembrance, for this Poppy Day and Anzac Day,” says President Graham Gibson.
“This is such a fresh and innovative telling of the Poppy story and a truly special way to honour the sacrifice of New Zealanders this Anzac Day. We wish to express our heartfelt thanks on behalf of veterans to Auckland Council, Vector and production company Assembly,” says Gibson, a Vietnam veteran.
“For the RSA, it’s not about telling how to remember, but finding new ways of remembering that grow awareness for new generations, so that our stories of service and sacrifice will not be forgotten.”
On 20 April, the RSA is collecting for their annual Poppy Day appeal. Learn more at aucklandrsa.co.nz and wear your poppy with pride.
On 25 April, those viewing Vector Lights from around the harbour in either the morning or evening can listen to the soundtrack at vector.co.nz/lights, and those who can’t make it out to a vantage point can view the livestream.
For details of the local service in Grey Lynn, visit www.greylynnrsc.org.nz