Thousands attend Rotorua Anzac Day Dawn Parade (+video)

Anzac Day dawn parade at Muruika Urupa in Ohinemutu. Photo / Ben Fraser

As the ranks of Rotorua's returned servicemen attending the city's Anzac Day Dawn parade thin they are being replaced ten-fold by members of the public.

More than 2000 people made the 5.45am start this morning to pay their respects to the country's war veterans - both living and dead - almost 100 years since the start of World War I.

Veterans were led into Muruika Urupa (cemetery) at Ohinemutu by the City of Rotorua Highland Pipe Band under the orders of parade marshall Walter McLean.

The service was led by Te Arawa Maori Returned Services League president Te Kei Merito with Reverend Tom Poata and Father Mark Field representing the clergy.

Anzac Day dawn parade at Muruika Urupa in Ohinemutu. Photo / Ben Fraser

Guest speaker, Warrant Officer First Class and Sergeant Major of the Army (retired), Henry Macown reminded people of the importance of the occasion one year out from the 100th anniversary of the Gallipoli landings.

"We have been waiting patiently for this year to commemorate this footprint in history.
"At this time all over New Zealand this theme will be echoed in the cities, the provincial towns and small settlements people like us will gather and pay silent tribute to the glorious dead.

"Men abed in Rotorua this morning will rue the day they did not attend the 100 year commemoration of service of World War I servicemen," he said.

Wreaths were laid on the cemetery's obelisk by dignitaries and veterans including Rotorua mayor Steve Chadwick and MP Todd McClay along with Australian High Commission representative Squadron leader Phillip Sixsmith.

In a touching tribute, those assembled gave veterans a warm round of applause as they marched out of the cemetery at the conclusion of the service (See video below).

- Matthew Martin