On Poppy Day on April 11, PJ TAYLOR was in Howick Village asking people, what does ANZAC Day mean to them. Donation money collected from the sales of poppies in the lead-up to April 25 goes to the Returned and Services Association (RSA) for its welfare work it does with Defence Force veterans.

Carin Newbould, of Howick

“It’s a chance to reflect on our freedom and liberties and remember the people who fought, served and sacrificed so much to give us our present-day life.”

Beverley Barnett, of Howick

“I love ANZAC Day for the fact that we celebrate as families and the community what our earlier generations did in the line of service for their country. They were there.”

Doli Bajaj, of Beachlands

“It’s a special day to pay tribute to the people who fought and served in the wars. We always think about the families and loved ones they left behind. As citizens we owe them a lot.”

Debbie Tottle, of Half Moon Bay

“I feel so proud and it’s an emotional day. My father served in WWII in the Navy and was on the ships Gambia and Achilles. I now appreciate what my Dad had to go through.”

Peter Bankers, of Cockle Bay

“When I was younger, I was anti-war. Still am. My Dad was in the Dutch Resistance in WWII. It’s still important to retain our culture of ANZAC Day today.”

Eleanor Robb, of Howick

“It means a lot. My husband was a member of the Howick RSA for 40 years and his grandfather was killed in WWI. It’s an important day of remembrance.”