25 Apr 2020

Anzac Day 2020 recap: Stand at dawn

10:49 am on 25 April 2020

Across the country, people stood at their driveways this morning to commemorate Anzac Day with "individual acts of commemoration".

Photos sent in to RNZ from across the nation show people everywhere taking part in the Stand At Dawn effort - in their homes or at the end of their driveways.

The Covid-19 lockdown has changed how this year's Anzac commemorations have occurred.

But Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said: "While we cannot physically come together, I know we are united by our respect for our veterans and our service personnel.

"Nationwide from dawn and throughout the day, our individual acts of commemoration - that is what will form our collective tribute."

RNZ National is partnering with the RSA and New Zealand Defence Force to broadcast a special Dawn Service. Coverage starts at 5.50am, with the official Stand At Dawn service starting at 6am.

People have been asked to join in by standing at your letterbox, at the front door, in your lounge room, on your balcony, or in your driveway.

Stay in your bubble but wherever you are in the world, stand with us and take a moment to remember.

RNZ's 'virtual' dawn service will be presented by Shannon Haunui-Thompson, and will include The Last Post, and a reading of the Ode of Remembrance in both Te Reo Māori and English.

A broadcast of the National Anthems of Australia and Aotearoa / New Zealand will be followed by a special address by Hon. Ron Mark, Minister of Defence and Minister for Veterans.

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