Tonga will mark Anzac Day with a dawn service at Pangai Lahi Cenotaph in Nuku’alofa on Friday, 25 April.
The service, beginning at 6:00am, will commemorate 110 years since the Gallipoli Campaign. Crown Prince Tupouto’a ‘Ulukalala will attend as Guest of Honour.
Officials expect a strong turnout from the Tongan Defence Services, diplomatic corps, veterans, and the public, as the nation pays tribute to Australian and New Zealand soldiers who served and died in wars and peacekeeping missions.
The ceremony will include wreath-laying, the Last Post, and moments of silence. Local church leaders will lead prayers, and national anthems will be sung.
New Zealand High Commissioner to Tonga, Matthew Howell, previously described Anzac Day as a remembrance of “those who have made sacrifices, in defense of our countries and in service of peace.”
Tonga’s continued participation in Anzac commemorations reflects long-standing ties with Australia and New Zealand. Tongan soldiers served alongside Anzacs in conflicts including World War I and II.
Anzac Day is observed annually on 25 April across Australia, New Zealand, and the Pacific to remember those who served in the Gallipoli Campaign of 1915 and beyond.
