Anzac Day is honored annually on April 25 as it marks the first major military action fought by Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC) forces during the First World War at Gallipoli, Turkey (now Gelibolu). This is also known by veterans as one of the worst places to serve during the war. These heroes laid down their lives to serve Australia and New Zealand in all wars, conflicts, and peacekeeping operations. They were part of an Allied expedition that set out to capture the Gallipoli Peninsula. Many suffered heavy casualties and many did not make it out alive, in fact, close to 3000 New Zealand soldiers died during the eight-month Gallipoli campaign.
That is why both in New Zealand and Australia, Anzac Day has been declared a public holiday since 1921 but observed as early as 1916. It was the work of most New Zealanders who wanted Anzac Day observed as a sacred day to honor and remember the soldiers that sacrificed their life. Anzac Day is a good reminder to remember the soldiers who are gone but never forgotten.
Both in New Zealand and Australia, if the 25th falls over the weekend, then the public holiday is automatically moved to the Monday directly after. It’s that important and just as it should be.
ANZAC Day Today
But what happens during ANZAC Day in New Zealand in the recent years up to today? How do people honor this day?
During ANZAC Day, since it is a public holiday, New Zealanders spend this very solemn day to honor and remember these ANZAC warriors by participating in services, programs and events. However, due to the potential for large crowds and traffic congestion, conventional means of commuting to these gatherings, such as public transportation or cars, can present difficulties. This is where electric scooters provide a great solution.
Services, Programs and Events in New Zealand
1. Dawn Service: The Dawn Service is a traditional way of honoring ANZAC Day in New Zealand. It is held at dawn, the time when the ANZAC troops landed at Gallipoli on April 25, 1915. The service usually involves the playing of the Last Post, a minute of silence, and the laying of wreaths to remember those who have served and died.
2. Parades and Commemorations: In addition to the Dawn Service, there are usually commemorations held in towns and cities across New Zealand. These events provide an opportunity for New Zealanders to pay their respects and honor the sacrifices made by those who have served in the military.
3. Two-Minute Silence: At 11am on ANZAC Day, New Zealanders observe a two-minute silence as a mark of respect for those who have served in the military.
4. ANZAC Biscuits: ANZAC biscuits are a traditional New Zealand treat that is often eaten on ANZAC Day. They were originally made by the wives and mothers of ANZAC troops and were sent to soldiers serving overseas as a reminder of home. The original Anzac Biscuits, though, used certain ingredients so that the biscuits stay fresh for weeks because it took a while to reach the soldiers overseas. Stories have been told that the original Anzac biscuits were as hard as a rock, so hard in fact that some soldiers would grind them up and use them as porridge. Today, the recipe has been altered but for good, more edible reasons. This is still one great way to remember ANZAC Day. This is also done in Australia.
5. Wear a Poppy: Poppies are a type of flower that have become an important symbol of remembrance because the image inspired the use of the flower as a symbol for those who have served and died in the military. In the lead up to ANZAC Day, many New Zealanders wear poppies as a way of showing their support and respect. You might also see lots of paper poppies on and around Anzac Day in NZ.
6. Visit War Memorials: New Zealand has several war memorials across the country, which provide a space for people to pay their respects and remember those who have served in the military. Many people visit these memorials on ANZAC Day to lay wreaths and pay their respects.
7. Additionally in New Zealand, shops are prohibited from opening on ANZAC Day until 1pm.
Honor ANZAC Day
If you happen to be in New Zealand on the 25th of April and want to participate in the ANZAC Day commemoration, consider joining fellow New Zealanders in honoring this special day. Take a moment to reflect on the bravery of the soldiers who made sacrifices for their country and recognize the impact their service has had on our lives.
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One of the most significant advantages of electric scooters is their eco-friendliness. They produce zero emissions and require less energy to operate than traditional vehicles, which can help reduce the carbon footprint of those attending ANZAC Day events, contributing to a more sustainable future.
Electric scooters are also a budget-friendly option, depending on the brand and model you choose. Although the initial cost may be higher, you will eventually enjoy the benefits, which come even sooner than you expected. Furthermore, electricity is cheaper than fuel and gas.
Besides their practical advantages, the best electric scooters can also provide an enjoyable travel experience. They provide a sense of freedom and independence, allowing people interested in attending ANZAC Day events to easily hop on their scooter and zip their way.
However, it is crucial to use fast electric scooters responsibly and safely. This means wearing approved helmets and safety gear, following traffic rules, and remaining aware of your surroundings.
