ANZAC Day

Anzac Day is usually commemorated by the Eastbourne Community at the war memorial adjacent to Muritai School, followed by refreshments at the Eastbourne Sports and Services Club. Anzac Day is observed on 25 April. It commemorates New Zealanders killed in war and honours returned and serving servicemen and women. Anzac Day dates 1916 – Anzac Day gazetted as a half-day holiday 1921 – Anzac Day becomes a full public holiday 1939 – Dawn ceremony widely included in New Zealand Anzac Day commemorations for the first time 1949 – Legislation passed preventing Anzac Day from being 'Mondayised' 1966 – Current Anzac Day Act liberalises activities allowed