Anzac Day services: Values forged in war define us as Kiwis, says PM

Dame Silvia Cartwright and her husband Peter lay tributes on the Tomb of the Unknown Warrior. Picture / NZPA: Ross Setford

Prime Minister Helen Clark paid tribute to war veterans yesterday, saying Anzac Day was a time to honour those whose lives were sacrificed and to recognise the contribution New Zealand had made in war efforts over the past century.

Helen Clark, speaking at the Mt Albert War Memorial yesterday, said characteristics which became central to how New Zealanders identified themselves - such as mateship, unity, courage, self-sacrifice, loyalty and egalitarianism - were forged during the Gallipoli conflict in World War I.

"These are values which continue to distinguish New Zealand's service personnel and are held dear as part of our Anzac tradition."

Although memorial services were being held all around New Zealand to honour those whose lives were sacrificed, they were also a tribute to the war veterans still with us, she told the crowd.

"Despite our small size on the international stage, New Zealand's service commitment has been huge.

"In the First World War, New Zealand sent more than 100,000 soldiers overseas. During the Second War, New Zealand made another massive contribution.

"Over 200,000 men and women served in our armed forces and 135,000 of these were mobilised overseas. Since then, our service personnel have served in many international conflicts, emergencies and peacekeeping operations.

"These include J-Force, Korea, Malaya and Borneo, Vietnam, Bosnia, the Gulf, East Timor, Bougainville and Afghanistan. New Zealand continues to assist at points of danger and conflict around the world," she said.

In honour of all New Zealanders who had served their country in times of conflict, the Government had designated 2006 as the Year of the Veteran, she said.

Activities and initiatives would take place nationwide, to provide the opportunity for all New Zealanders to recognise the courage and sacrifice of those who have served, she said.

The Prime Minister also recognised the 90th anniversary of the founding of the Royal New Zealand Returned Services Association.

The RSA had a proud history of dedication to the welfare and commemoration of servicemen and women, past and present, she said. "It is important for us to remember that the impact of service can be considerable; not only for the veterans themselves, but for their spouses, their families and their communities."

Helen Clark said New Zealand was fortunate that many had never known the horror of war. "Those who set out to serve New Zealand in times of conflict were also perhaps unaware of the true nature of the challenges that lay ahead.

"However, their courage and determination in the face of these challenges remains an inspiration to all."

In Wellington Governor-General Dame Silvia Cartwright paid respect at the commemorations at the National Memorial Service and said the Anzac story continued today.

"It is in the faces of our young people who have not witnessed the horror of war and in the everyday freedoms we enjoy today - the freedoms we have come to expect in a way our grandparents never did, or could."

Anzac Day was also a day to pay tribute to the servicemen and women who returned safely. "We give thanks to those who are currently serving our country as peacekeepers in areas of conflict."

- NZPA