Hundreds of people have turned out to commemorate the Battle of Passchendaele - an event military historians describe as this country's darkest hour.
A minute's silence has been held at Auckland's War Memorial Museum to remember the 846 New Zealand soldiers who died 98 years ago today.
A choir has sung In Flanders Fields - bringing tears to the eyes of many there.
Wreaths have been laid by the Minister for Veterans' Affair, Craig Foss, MP Phil Goff and Auckland Mayor Len Brown.
The commemoration was an opportunity for thoughtful reflection for those lost, Mr Brown said.
