Piopio ANZAC Commemoration 2026

NOW done and dusted, there are many aspects of the 2026 Commemoration to be celebrated. The weather was fantastic and the road quiet.

The change of format was popular, with having the National anthems and flag raising ceremony directly following the
March. There was a good turnout of over 200 people, and this seems to grow every year.

The primary schools were well represented, many of the children in uniform. They should be proud of the way they represented their schools, and the waiata, ‘Tai Aroha’, was beautiful. This was sung after Piopio College’s head students, Ruby Barrera-Cassidy and Paris Blake delivered speeches.

We were privileged to have Sergeant Thomas Roy as our guest speaker. His speech while sometimes entertaining was also enlightening as he spoke of the realities of training soldiers for modern warfare; a very sobering message.

The service concluded with the wreath laying ceremony and a prayer. The wreaths and tributes were beautiful and it was obvious that a huge amount of effort had gone in to some of the tributes.

We are much indebted to many groups who contribute a lot to the day, particularly the fire brigade who take care of road safety; we really do rely on their support. Piopio RSA manage formal proceedings, Warren Wade donates and operates the sound system, our skilled musicians, Anita and team, the Cos Club for a lovely spread to follow. Bugler (Cornet) Nathan Cocks comes down from Kihikihi to play. Thanks also to Bob Dawson (bagpipes), Pastor Terry Bradley, Alex Bromham, Lions Club, all our schools, WDC and everyone else who attended and supported. Parade Commander was Gordon Simpson and Pam Voyce MC for the service.

It’s a big day for our small community.