Opinion: Why do you think it is important to commemorate Anzac Day?

Last year's Rotorua Anzac Day dawn service and parade at Muruika war cemetery at Ohinemutu. Photo / File

We asked people on the street why they thought it was important to commemorate Anzac Day.

Douglas Rota

I think it's important because our people went to war for us.

Douglas Rota, 22

Fordlands

Peter Bruce-Iri

My father was in World War II so it had a huge impact on our lives. It's part of our identity and hopefully reminds us of the horrors of war.

Peter Bruce-Iri, 63

Central Rotorua

Nathan Fraser

People died so we could be free, I think that's an important thing to honour and remember.

Nathan Fraser, 24

Hamurana

Andy Gimson

It's all about sacrifice. People are willing to not only give up time and effort, but sacrifice potentially their life for the freedom and protection of others. Those people deserve recognition.

Andy Gimson, 25

Springfield