War memorials
Honouring the memory of those who have given the ultimate sacrifice in times of war.
We commemorate those who have served our country by supporting the upkeep of war memorials so that the memory and service of our fallen live on.
In a tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice during times of war, communities across Aotearoa, New Zealand developed local memorials that stand as symbols of our shared history. Not only to honour those who fought and died, but these memorials are where communities can unite to remember, grieve, and find solace.
With a commitment to preserving our heritage, in 2020, government announced the COVID-19 Response and Recovery Fund. This enabled $11.8 million in grants for 88 war memorials, town halls and other community landmarks to be renovated across Aotearoa. This ensures they remain fit for purpose and provide people with renewed pride within our communities.
In response to the economic impacts of COVID-19, this renovation program was designed not only to safeguard the physical integrity of these memorials but also to bolster local employment opportunities and stimulate regional economies.
Below are a couple of examples of how Kānoa has helped to ensure these significant memorials live on for many more years to come.
Featherston War Memorial
Featherston War Memorial
Originally unveiled in 1927, the Featherston War Memorial is a prominent monument within this small rural community. Classified as a Historic Category 1 structure, it is highly valued within the township and for the last 90 years is the key site for Anzac Day commemorations.
Constructed predominantly of reinforced concrete and embedded river stone cobbles on the columns, architraves and dome, it was in need of earthquake strengthening. For the South Wairarapa District Council, it was important to preserve the integrity of this memorial to ensure it continued to serve as a timely reminder of the sacrifices made during war time and for it to live on for further generations. Work was required to repair the rebars, the damaged stones in the pillars and the hazardous steps leading to the memorial.
The refurbishment of this monument not only has given it a new lease on life but ensures the inscribed names of those who have served and died for our country continue to be honoured.
The Featherston War Memorial received a $224,905 grant from the Provincial Development Growth Fund.
Invercargill City War Memorials
Southland Boer War Memorial (Troopers Memorial)
Invercargill City Council has breathed new life into its seven War Memorials across their region. This not only to ensures the longevity of these memorials but also pays homage to the courageous Southlanders who served their country.
These cherished memorials include the Southland Boer War Memorial (Troopers Memorial), Southland Cenotaph, South Invercargill War Memorial, Kennington Memorial Gates, Myross Bush Memorial Gates, Waikiwi Domain Memorial Gates and Rugby Park Footballers Memorial.
The restoration work focussed on repairing the memorials, removal of invasive vegetation and reinstating them as focal points within the community.
Invercargill City Council received a $680,000 grant from the Provincial Growth Fund to not only revitalise the memorials but also to stimulate economic growth.