The original Anzac Day Act did not cover conflicts after 1966
Parliament has passed legislation that will see Anzac Day officially honour all who gave service to New Zealand during times of war.
The amended Anzac Day Act will better reflect “public sentiment about who we honour on Anzac Day”, said justice minister Paul Goldsmith, who is also the arts, culture and heritage minister.
“Honouring our service personnel on Anzac Day is one of our most enduring national traditions. It binds us to our history and to the story of who we are as a country, while providing an opportunity to reflect on the courage and extraordinary sacrifice of those who have served to defend and protect New Zealand and our allies”, he said in a press release. “However, the Anzac Day Act was in desperate need of updating. It failed to acknowledge conflicts after 1966, meaning many service personnel were excluded from official commemorations under the law”.
Veterans minister Chris Penk said the updated Act would recognise the services of allied forces members who were involved in the first landing on Gallipoli, including those of personnel from France and India.
“These changes are well overdue, and come into effect before Anzac Day 2026, meaning that this year will be the first time our national commemoration formally recognises all those who have served New Zealand in times of war”, Penk said.
Goldsmith said the law’s passing bolsters the “integrity and relevance” of Anzac Day as a key day of remembrance for New Zealanders. Penk noted that on this day, Kiwis commemorated family members who served as civilians in medical units, the Merchant Navy in both world wars and trainees who died while preparing for conflict.
