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E nga waka     (distinguished representatives)

E nga mana     (esteemed guests)

Tena koutou katoa      (greetings one and all)

I would like to acknowledge the following:

Ms Olga Cogen, Deputy Head of Mission, Embassy of the Kingdom of Belgium

His Excellency Mr Leasi Papali’l Tommy Scanlan, Dean of the Diplomatic Corps

E ngā mana, e ngā waka e ngā reo o te motu

Tihei mauri ora!

No reira tēnā koutou, tēnā koutou, tēnā no tātou katoa.

Today we come together as one, to remember. To remember the brave men and woman who stood for our country. To remember our shared history. 

To remember and acknowledge what Anzac means to us - collectively as a nation and individually. For each person here today, from our kaumatua to our mokopuna, there will be a connection that is individual and unique. On this day it will be felt most deeply.

As Veterans’ Affairs Minister, I am fortunate enough to meet veterans who have served our country in one of the most selfless and brave ways a person can. Thank you for your service to New Zealand. It is a pleasure and privilege to be in your company.

Tena koutou katoa

We Must Remember.

Today we stand together to recognise the sacrifice made by men and woman of your district, who served their country with honour and bravery.  Today is made even more special by remembering that exactly 100 years ago John Herbert Cock, a prominent member of the Nelson district was killed in action while serving in the Royal Flying Corp.

It is a great privilege to honour the sacrifice of our veterans and serving people and their contribution to the freedom, peace and security we at home are able to enjoy.