Anzac dawn service to remember fallen soldiers

A dawn service in Cathedral Square will provide an opportunity for residents to honour New Zealand's fallen soldiers on Anzac Day.

Thousands are expected to convene by the Citizens’ War Memorial to mark the 1915 Gallipoli campaign shared by Australia and New Zealand.

The ceremony begins with veterans assembling at Worcester bridge at 6:15 am on Thursday, 25 April, followed by a parade, featuring the New Zealand Army Band.

The official service starts at 6:30 am.

Christchurch Mayor Phil Mauger, alongside New Zealand armed forces representatives, will participate in laying wreaths.

The service will conclude with the playing of The Last Post, a minute of silence, and the New Zealand national anthem.

Mayor Mauger said it was a vital moment to commemorate the sacrifice of soldiers and reflect on their contributions to the community.

He also highlighted this year's centennial anniversaries of both the Halswell Memorial and the Bridge of Remembrance.

Additionally, at 10 am on the same day, the Transitional Cathedral in Latimer Square will host a long-standing citizens' service.

Traffic adjustments include road closures on Oxford Terrace and at the entrance to Cathedral Square from Colombo Street starting at 4 am.

Anzac Day services will also be held around Christchurch and Banks Peninsula:  

• Papanui: Papanui RSA Parking Area – 9.30am 

• New Brighton: Cenotaph, Marine Parade – 9.30am 

• Heathcote: War Memorial (Martindale-Bridal Path-Flavell) - 6.15am   

• Cashmere: 19th Battalion and Armoured Regiment Memorial Victoria Park, 8.00am

• Lyttelton: War Memorial, Albion Square – 10.00am 

• Diamond Harbour: War Memorial Hall, 10.30am

• Templeton: Templeton RSA, Banks St – 11.00am 

• Sumner: RSA Memorial Gates – 11.00am 

• Akaroa: War Memorial - 11.30am 

• Little River: Community Centre – 9.30am 

• Halswell: War Memorial/Domain - 9.00am 

• Citizens’ Service: Transitional Cathedral, Latimer Square - 10.00 am  

• Riccarton Jane Deans Close - 9am to remember the servicemen of the 20th Battalion NZEF

• Hornby War Memorial outside Hornby Primary at 9am.