We Remember: September 3rd is Merchant Navy Day
During the Second World War, thousands of New Zealand seafarers volunteered to serve in the Merchant Navy.
They sailed shipments of fuel, food and other essential supplies across the world, and delivered troops and military equipment where they were needed.
The work was important and extremely dangerous. 4,700 Allied merchant ships were sunk during the conflict, and 30,000 Allied merchant seamen lost their lives.
This included New Zealand ships like the Turakina and the Limerick, and at least 140 Kiwi merchant seafarers were killed with a similar number taken prisoner.
The merchant navy faced greater danger than any other group of New Zealand civilians. Their sacrifice and heroism will be remembered forever.
Merchant Navy Day is being commemorated at the below times and locations on Sunday September 3rd.
The exception is Nelson, where due to scheduling issues the ceremony is on Saturday September 2nd.
Auckland: 11am
The Maritime Room
Princes Wharf, Corner Quay and Hobson Street
Tauranga: 2pm
Sulphur Point
Hatupatu Drive
Napier: 11am
Taradale RSA
156 Gloucester St, Taradale
Wellington: 11am
National War Memorial
Pukeahu National War Memorial Park
RSVP by Monday 28 August to ensure seating
Telephone 04 817 8910 or email: vco.rsvp@dia.govt.nz
Nelson: 11am
(Note: This event takes place on Saturday)
Anzac Park
Between Haven Road and Rutherford Street
Lyttelton: 2pm
Lyttelton War Memorial Cenotaph
Albion Square
Bluff: 11am
Maritime Museum
241 Foreshore Road