Anzac Day commemorations at Trentham were a community event, held in bright sunshine, with lots of locals present, many of whom were representing family members lost in war. Floral tributes from community organizations were laid in memory of those fallen, including wreaths from the Girls Guide and UH RSA. The organisation of the event was superb, and the hospitality of St John’s much appreciated.

The service was held at the Lychgate, which is the gated roofed structure which forms a walk-through memorial to those who died in the Great War of 1914 – 1918, and is the entrance to St John’s churchyard on the corner of Fergusson Drive and Moonshine Road.

St Johns’ Rev Simon Falconer conducted the service and also related his own personal story of the losses of his own ancestors with two brothers going to war, one claimed on the battlefield, and the other returning home wounded to live a shortened and compromised life.

About 10% of all New Zealanders went to WW1.  Of the 100,000 serving, 18,000 died, and 40,000 were wounded. NZ population was only 1 million in 1914.

Wing Commander Mark Brewer spoke of the strong connections Upper Hutt has with both world wars, especially with the Trentham Military Camp and adjacent racecourse buildings functioning as a major New Zealand training, staging and logistics base in both WW1 and WW2.

2026 is the first Anzac day commemoration since legislation was updated to make Anzac day the official remembrance day which recognises all those who have served New Zealand in times of war.

We will remember them.

A “Thank You” to Stu for sending this article to The Upper Hutt Connection. Surname hasn’t been included but I know the contributor personally, and can vouch for the validity of the information provided.

04/01/26