Civic service proves popular

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The Tauranga public have exceeded all expectations with more than 8000 people packing into Tauranga Domain for the city's 'significant” combined civic service.

The combined service, between Tauranga and Mount Maunganui, was in a move marking the historical significance of the War Memorial Gates and the 100th Anniversary of the Anzac Cove landings.

More than 8000 people were in attendance for the combined Tauranga and Mount Maunganui Anzac Day Civic Memorial Service at Tauranga Domain. Photos: Luke Balvert

And it was standing room only well ahead of the scheduled 9.45am start with the grandstand and VIP seating in front of the stage snapped up quickly by those wearing red poppies or medals to remember those who have fallen.

Starting with the Anzac Day parade, led by veterans and RSA members, this was followed by the New Zealand flag being raised and a karakia, or prayer, recited by Komatua Huikakahu Kawe from Ngati Ranginui.

Tauranga Mayor Stuart Crosby, welcoming dignitaries, veterans and invited guests, says today is a significant moment in the country's history and also for the community of Tauranga.

"What a magnificent turn out for Tauranga.

"We're here today to honour and respect all those New Zealanders, both men and women who served for this country, and to reflect on their selfless sacrifices."

Royal New Zealand Navy Lieutenant Commander Evan Dines spoke about the significant losses that New Zealanders suffered during World War I while George Hicks reflected on his grandfather, George Te Kati Gardiner who served in both WWI and WWII.

A line of people gathered to lay wreaths, including all dignitaries, veterans and representatives from the armed services.

Then 110 white painted crosses which form the Field of Remembrance to honour those from Tauranga who lost their lives were each adorned with a poppy by the local cadets.

Speaking to SunLive after the service Tauranga Mayor Stuart Crosby says it was 'amazing” to see such a strong turnout from the public and hopes this will continue in years to come.

He admits it is the biggest Anzac civic service he has experienced in the city.

Quoting Governor General Sir Jerry Mateparae, from last week's national memorial service, Stuart says 'You shouldn't just remember people giving up their lives and getting injured on Anzac. You should remember it everyday.”

Tauranga City Council hosted a Great Anzac Day Brunch following the combined service at Tauranga Domain with a free bacon butty, a cup of tea and an Anzac biscuit on offer.

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9 comments

Thumbs down for sound

Posted on 25-04-2015 15:42 | By DandP

It was a shame that the sound system was inadequate. Sitting to one side most of what was said was barely audible at best, and totally inaudible for much of what was being said. For such an important anniversary this was a huge disappointment. We left, as others were doing, approximately half way through.


well done tauranga

Posted on 25-04-2015 16:40 | By grayman

the council and all those involved should be proud of a very moving and well organized celebration of rememberance.


Thumbs up for sound

Posted on 25-04-2015 17:13 | By wayne

I found the sound system quite adequate , could here every thing clear as a bell


sound

Posted on 26-04-2015 08:42 | By wayne

I found nothing wrong with the sound system i could hear every thing quite well from where I was siting along with every one around me well done to those who set it up


Poor Sound

Posted on 26-04-2015 13:41 | By MrGPz

My family were at the domain and commented on the poor sound system. Maybe it was good in the stands, but for those to the sides found it almost inaudible


Well done

Posted on 26-04-2015 13:59 | By THEDUFFYS

A very well done to all -a professional and dignified occasion


Poor sound

Posted on 28-04-2015 06:33 | By ChickenGeorge

I concur with what is being said re the poor sound. I'm sure it was ok if you were up front and centre, however, considering 8-10,000 people were expected to attend, there were always going to be crowds around the flanks. Hearing the content of the speeches makes or breaks these sorts of events. Everything else was very well organised. A lesson for the future Tauranga.


Sound explanation

Posted on 28-04-2015 10:50 | By bayer

i too couldn't hear parts of the service as I was standing off to the side. I asked the guys at the control desk if they could turn it up. They said there was nothing they could do from there. The mics were to far from the speakers mouths. They were able to partial remedy the problem as the service went on. Can't always get everything right I suppose.


Sound disappointing

Posted on 28-04-2015 14:32 | By For what it's worth

Great service, well done, but support prior comments re. sound. We arrived 20 mins before start, and were standing just on the edges of crowd in front of clubrooms, and neither my mother or I could hear much at all - was very disappointing. I imagine those who could hear were sitting in front of stand where it would have been fine. We ended up standing behind the stage where we couldn't see but at least could hear - perhaps next time a larger sound system, and make sure speakers are closer to lecturn mic. Otherwise well done.


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