I don't feel comfortable in big crowds these days, and I can't agree that wars solve anything. On Anzac Day morning I wanted to acknowledge the history – and I needed exercise. Memorial Park seemed a good place to be.

What a blessing of peace welcomed me.

Memorial Park was scattered with families and individuals, playing, sitting, chatting, gently exercising with their Tai Chi or similar, laughing, strolling to and past the Memorial.

Children quietly looked for names they recognised. Parents gently answered simple questions. A man drove his motorbike to near the steps, took off his protective gear and thoughtfully approached the Memorial. Not a flag in sight, no uniforms or formal speeches by VIPs – but what a powerful message was there!

How eloquent were the few simple paper poppy wreaths, with childlike touch, lying at the centre of the monument. I almost missed it. Standing alone, but near the Memorial, a kauri strong and rue, with placard, remembering Armistice – 11-11-11 – its loud message said: 'There are better ways to make peace. Stop fighting, start talking. Be thankful for those with courage to cry ‘enough' and craft for all, a life-giving way ahead”. Is there a hint here for future Anzac Days – a family day without pomp and ceremony where community is encouraged to visit Memorial Park, enjoy and look with love at our neighbours of many tribes, colours, cultures?

N Whimp, Bellevue.