Anzac services set for Christchurch area

Christchurch's Anzac Day Dawn Service will go ahead with extra security measures and a strong Police presence in and around Cranmer Square.

The 10am citizens’ service will also still be held in the Transitional Cathedral in Latimer Square.

Several smaller services are planned for throughout the Christchurch area, led by the RSA.

The Anzac Day Dawn Service will be held in Cranmer Square.

However, a planned Christchurch City Council-organised event in Sydenham has been cancelled.

This follows New Zealand Police requests to cancel or consolidate Anzac services to enable police to provide appropriate support to large gatherings, with heightened levels of security after the 15 March mosque attacks in Riccarton and Linwood.

Council Civic and International Relations Manager Matt Nichols says there will be a visible police presence at the Dawn Service in Christchurch for the safety and reassurance of the community.

“We recognise the importance of Anzac Day to so many people, so we’re working with Police to put appropriate security measures in place to allow people to feel safe to come together and mark the day,” Mr Nichols says.

“If possible, people should not bring bags to the service to reduce potential delays when entering Cranmer Square.”

Vehicle access will also be restricted around the area.

People are encouraged to allow a bit of extra time to get to the Dawn Service and the citizens’ service.

People can contact their local RSA for information on any RSA-led events in their areas.