Police staff nationwide joined with their communities to mark Anzac Day – but nowhere was the day of remembrance more poignant than in Christchurch.
Commissioner Mike Bush and District Commander Superintendent John Price joined 10,000 Cantabrians for the Dawn Service in Cranmer Square.
Commissioner Bush says he is pleased thousands of people felt safe to attend.
“It was really important we had a presence in Christchurch, for me to join with the District Commander and be part of the community on this day bearing in mind the tragedy in this city just over a month ago,” he says.
Commissioner Bush meets Mustafa Boztas, who was injured
during the Deans Avenue shooting (see link below).
More than 40 officers were part of the security operation for the Cranmer Square service. The commemoration went without incident, and with no arrests.
More than 1000 extra police staff were deployed to Anzac services at 374 locations across the country.
John says it was great to see so many people joining together to commemorate Anzac Day.
“I think it is important that we do not allow the actions of one person and their ideology to impact on us as community,” he says.
“Events such as ANZAC Day are about honouring the good in people and the ultimate sacrifices made to ensure peace remains at the heart of our community.
“As a result of 15 March, Police across Canterbury and the country were true heroes and ANZAC Day is about remembering our heroes.”