Anzac Day 2014
Our annual Anzac Day commemorative service, has been going from strength to strength and this year was no exception.
We had a crowd of around 70 people. Whānau and community members from Hokitika, Fox, Haast and further afield joined us at Te Tauraka Waka a Māui Marae on Friday for the service.
This year it was conducted by Father Mike Mahoney of Whataroa, who also provided the musical accompaniment with his portable keyboard. It was a lovely service and a great day of whanaungatanga and community.
Apparently, Anzac Day in other parts of Te Tai o Poutini was marred by torrential rain.
We had that the night before with a terrific South Westland storm and thunder that just about shattered the windows. Anzac Day itself dawned overcast and drizzly, clearing to fine skies just as the service ended and we were wreath laying at the flagpole, Te Hokowhitu a Tū. Our tamariki carried the wreath and Haast policeman Constable Robin Manera raised the flag.
Everyone gathers outside at the flagpole.
Chairman Paul Madgwick addresses the group.
Robert and Denis Kihi, Bjorn Mahuika, Charlotte Jamieson-Russell (front), Tulia Mahuika and Miguel Mahuika carry the wreath from the mahau to the flagpole.
Whānau member Helen Rasmussen reads the Scripture.
Ka maumahara tonu tātou ki a rātou.