Special Armistice Day commemoration for bridge

A special Armistice Day commemoration was held to mark the 100th anniversary of the Bridge of Remembrance today.

Armistice Day commemorates the agreement that ended the First World War and the sacrifice of the New Zealanders who lost their lives in service of their country.

The eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month marks the moment when hostilities ceased on the Western Front in 1918, with the signing of the Armistice.

It was on this day 100 years ago that the Bridge of Remembrance was officially opened, a monument dedicated to the memory of the New Zealanders who took part in World War I.

Acting Mayor Pauline Cotter, who laid a wreath on behalf of the city at this morning’s ceremony, says the Bridge of Remembrance holds an important place in the city’s landscape and in the hearts of Christchurch people. 

Acting Mayor Pauline Cotter laid a wreath on behalf of the city

“The laying of the foundation stone took place on 25 April 1923 and the following year the full dedication took place on 11 November 1924. Since that time, anniversaries of subsequent conflicts have been commemorated here, with plaques being added to remember all the brave New Zealanders who have served in wars overseas, including World War II.

“Although the bridge was damaged in the 22 February 2011 earthquake, it was subsequently repaired and remains an important feature of the riverside precinct. In recent years this area has become the focus of a revitalised central city, with many visitors to our city passing under the arch of the bridge. 

“We share in this day of remembrance with the Christchurch Memorial Returned and Services Association and together give thanks to those who sacrificed so much.”

During today’s commemoration, six rounds were fired from a howitzer gun; three at 10am, to symbolise the service personnel marching towards the gunfire of battle, and three at 10.59am, symbolising the moment just before the guns fell silent.

Soprano Deborah Wai Kapohe performed the national anthem, and the New Zealand Army Band and City of Christchurch Highland Pipe Band provided the music for the occasion. 

Fields of Remembrance crosses have been in place in Remembrance Park beside the Bridge, in the lead-up to Armistice Day this year. They will remain in place until 15 November.

It is the final time the crosses will be seen. They were first put out in Cramner Square and Remembrance Park in the lead-up to Anzac Day, between 2014-2018, on the 100^th anniversary of the Great War.