24 Apr 2014

Mixed outlook for dawn ceremonies

6:20 pm on 24 April 2014

The weather forecast for Anzac Day dawn services is likely to be a mixed bag, with cloud and drizzle in the west and clearer skies and drier conditions in the east.

MetService spokesperson Daniel Corbett says the main centres, including Auckland and Christchurch, will be dry on Friday - although there is a chance of an early shower to the north of Wellington.

Drizzle is forecast from Waikato to Westland, while Southland and Otago are also in for a wet start but with conditions improving through the day.

Mr Corbett says the rain is set to move over the country on Friday, but better weather's on the way for the weekend.

Designer's merchandise a hit

Despite the bad weather of the past few days, the Royal New Zealand Returned and Services' Association (RSA) says its annual Anzac poppy fundraiser is on target. Chief executive David Moger says it usually sells 1 million poppies, raising about $2 million.

Mr Moger says local RSAs are also collecting and a text donation service is doing well. The sale of other merchandise, including a Trelise Cooper range of poppy-inspired clothing and items, which has nearly sold out, will go towards making the charity sustainable.

Dame Trelise is a patron of the Auckland RSA and says demand for the T-shirts, scarves, umbrellas and iphone covers has come from as far afield as Australia, proving that the Anzac spirit is still strong.

She with many RSAs struggling financially, the organisation is looking to reinvent itself to meet the needs of current serving men and women.