Many organisers of Anzac Day events like to read out a message from the Prime Minister or the Governor-General as part of their service. Here is the Anzac Day 2022 message from the Prime Minister. The Governor-General's message is here.
This content of message is embargoed until 25 April 2022. It should not be republished or broadcast before that date.
The Rt Hon Jacinda Ardern
Prime Minister of New Zealand
Anzac Day Message 2022
More than a hundred years after New Zealand troops landed at Gallipoli, Anzac Day remains as important to us as ever.
New Zealanders up and down the country will mark this day in many different ways, and will reflect on the unique meaning it has for each of us. I hope that many of us can connect, together or in spirit, with the veterans in our communities who are central to Anzac Day and all that it represents.
One hundred years ago, in 1922, New Zealand was still experiencing the immediate after-effects of war. The enormous task of reintegrating veterans was ongoing, along with a growing realisation that there was no end in sight to the war’s ramifications for families, livelihoods and communities.
Looking back, we know that many lives were never the same again. We know, too, that many more instances of war and conflict have occurred since.
This year, Anzac Day is especially poignant as we think of the recent invasion of Ukraine. The events in Ukraine have been shocking and distressing, and for those who have experienced war in the past, they are surely a most grim reminder of the devastation it can wreak.
Anzac Day is a time for all of us to think of those in our communities who have experienced war and conflict – those whose lives have been lost, our veterans, our armed services personnel, families of the fallen, and our refugee communities.
Today, let us think too of our fellow New Zealanders experiencing fear and heartache for their families and friends affected by current conflicts around the world.
Acts of war can show us humanity at its worst. However, New Zealanders who have fought for our country have exhibited the best of human values – values such as courage, compassion and the spirit of service.
Let us never forget their example. On Anzac Day, as we honour our service personnel, we also honour who we are as New Zealanders. Because, ultimately, it is upholding the best of human values even in the most difficult of times that makes us stronger.
Rt Hon Jacinda Ardern
Prime Minister of New Zealand
Updated on 13th April 2022