The Art of Remembrance 2026, a musical night of remembrance in the Great Hall of Kāhui St David’s centre for music, Auckland’s living memorial.
On Friday 24 April, join veterans, whānau, and the wider community for an unforgettable evening honouring all members and veterans of the New Zealand Defence Force.
The night features a rich musical and storytelling programme. Unsung Heroes perform original songs and readings from wartime letters, including Cameron Bennett, veteran foreign correspondent, with “Letter to Darkie”, recounting a letter sent to his grandfather from the Western Front. Chris Priestley presents “3 Telegrams (Dad’s Song)”, introduced by Peter Elliott ONZM, TV star and percussionist, telling his father’s story of the battle at Takrouna Hill in Tunisi
Hear David Harvey on Scottish bagpipes, pūoro by Riki Bennett, University of Auckland Student Choir, hymns led by soprano Michelle Thorne-McHugh, the Off Broadway Big Band and Helen Lukman-Fox on the great pipe organ, with all attendees invited to join in.
The night will begin with a parade of veterans in to the Great Hall. It will include the Last Post, Minute of Silence, and The Rouse and the ceremonial relighting of the Lamp of Remembrance for the year ahead. We will also hear from members of the New Zealand Defence Force.
Wreaths will be laid for the Royal New Zealand Nursing Corps, Royal New Zealand Engineers, 28th Māori Battalion, and all who have served Aotearoa New Zealand in peacekeeping and conflict.
We will remember them.
