The Anglican Parish of Gate Pā invites the community to a short service on April 29 to mark the 162nd anniversary of the Battle of Pukehinahina – Gate Pā.

Commemoration organiser Cliff Simons said the 4pm service is to commemorate the battle.

“We want to remember all those who fought and died in this tragic event; to reflect on the consequences of the military engagements for ngā iwi o Tauranga Moana; and to consider the significance of this whole story for us as a city today.”

The service will include accounts and perspectives on the battle. The church bell will be rung 60 times to remember the approximately 60 men, on both sides, who lost their lives and there will be prayers/karakia for the future of our city.

Prayers will be offered by students from local schools, as well as representatives from local iwi, armed forces and other groups.

The main speaker of this year’s event is Pukehinahina Charitable Trust chairwoman Sarah Webb, who will deliver a short reflection on the battle and on plans to commemorate and tell the story into the future.

Anglican Parish of Gate Pā Reverend Deborah Garrett said because St George’s Church sits on the battle site, “we feel responsible for telling the story and to offer ways that people can hear about, engage with, and reflect upon it and the Battle of Te Ranga, and what they mean for us living in Tauranga Moana today”.

“This will be the 11th time we have offered this service as an occasion for those who wish to continue to mark this day and its significance.”

The service is 4pm, April 29, at Te Whare Karakia o Hori Tapu – St George’s Anglican Church, 1 Church St, Gate Pā.