This Saturday, Anzac Day will be different from previous years. With the country hopefully in level three lockdown, the rules will be less strict, but it is still far too much of a risk to hold the usual dawn parades and ceremonies to commemorate the soldiers who have bravely served for us. 

The Royal New Zealand Returned Services Association said that, alongside the New Zealand Defence Force, it would be hosting a virtual dawn service for the first time in its more than 100-year history this Anzac Day.

"In 2020, for the first time in history, Anzac Day services across New Zealand have been cancelled due to Covid-19. Even though public Anzac services are unable to go ahead, it does not mean that the tradition of remembering and commemorating our veterans and service personnel should be cancelled too.” National president BJ Clark said.

The service will be held at 6.00 a.m. on April 25th, and can be accessed at https://www.standatdawn.com/home. The website also has activities like poppy making and Anzac biscuit recipes to get the whole family involved.

Chief of the New Zealand Defence Force, Air Marshal Kevin Short, said Anzac Day was an important day of commemoration, particularly for serving and ex-serving personnel and their families. 

"This year, more than ever, we need to draw on the many qualities that the enduring Anzac spirit has taught us - mateship, endurance, good humour, ingenuity, and courage. We encourage veterans, our service people, families and the wider public to engage with the Stand At Dawn Campaign."