Prime Ministers united on dignified memorial

Helen Clark (right) and John Howard took a 30-minute stroll yesterday in the Waitakere Ranges, near Titirangi. Picture / Kenny Rodger

The Prime Ministers of Australia and New Zealand were united yesterday over taking a "solemn and dignified" approach to the 90th anniversary commemorations at Gallipoli.

After a stroll together in the Waitakere bush, Helen Clark's Australian counterpart, John Howard, said he agreed that the approach was "entirely appropriate".

Mr Howard was in New Zealand for bilateral discussions involving strengthening trade ties, and Indonesian security.

But after a media storm last week over the right tone for Gallipoli, the pair presented a united front on proceedings there on Anzac Day.

They discussed the issue over lunch, and, while not giving away plans for the event, Helen Clark said the ceremonies would be "solemn and dignified".

It is understood that Mr Howard will take part in the service at Lone Pine and Helen Clark will attend the service at Chunuk Bair, which particularly marks the New Zealand contribution to the landing.

Before lunch, Helen Clark said: "I think that you will find there is no daylight between us with the nature of the Commonwealth commemoration.

"I had the opportunity to speak with John Howard many times about such matters. The bottom line for us was ... that it should be very dignified.

"It will be appropriate."

Helen Clark last week faced criticism over her view that a concert was not appropriate for Gallipoli, after it was revealed that Australia's John Farnham had expected to sing at the commemorations.

Helen Clark did not know Farnham or his music, but insisted that a concert of any kind was inappropriate.

National leader Don Brash accused her of being elitist but it became apparent the public vote was with the Prime Minister.

Mr Howard said before he left Australia: "I think it is appropriate that you have the right tone, and I don't think anybody is having a go at John Farnham ... but most Australians would believe that the appropriate tone should be preserved."

The two leaders later took a walk from the Auckland Regional Council Arataki Visitor Centre on Scenic Drive near Titirangi.

Mr Howard described the area as fantastic, and Helen Clark noted its closeness to the city.

On the agenda

* Aid to tsunami-affected countries.

* Economic issues facing Australia and New Zealand.

* Military deployment in the region.

* Pacific issues.

* Upcoming free-trade talks with the Southeast Asian bloc.