The Albany community came together at a packed Albany Hall this ANZAC Day on the 25th April 2026 to reflect, remember, and honour those who have served New Zealand in times of war and conflict.
The service, presided over by Margaret Miles, QSM, JP, brought together residents of all ages, alongside veterans, students, and community leaders.
The morning began with local members of the community carrying white crosses of local WW1 and WW2 servicemen, which were placed near the stage. The commemoration included prayers led by Reverend Robin Palmer of Browns Bay Presbyterian Church, and a solemn moment of the service was the sounding of the Last Post by bugler Dan Fordyce, during which the colours were lowered by Sergeant Ray Mansell.
A highlight of the Albany Hall ANZAC service was the series of personal addresses delivered by local student leaders. Carter Bucknell, Head Student of Albany Senior High School, Sabrina Liu, Deputy Head Prefect of Kristin School, and George Hardy, Head Prefect of Pinehurst School, each shared reflections on remembrance, service, and the responsibility of younger generations to carry forward the legacy of the ANZACs. Their contributions underscored the ongoing relevance of ANZAC Day among youth in the community.
Following the formal proceedings, attendees were invited to share light refreshments and visit the nearby Albany Memorial Library, where information about local soldiers offered a deeper connection to the community’s wartime history.
The Albany ANZAC Day ceremony continues to serve as a meaningful reminder of sacrifice, resilience, and unity. Through contributions from both older and younger generations, the event ensures that the legacy of those who served remains an enduring part of the community’s identity.
While central ceremonies, such as those at the Auckland War Memorial Museum, draw large crowds, Local participation is a defining feature of suburban ANZAC services like Albany’s community events, which offer a more intimate setting for remembrance, often highlighting local businesses, local people, stories and connections.
The event was supported by a wide network of contributors. The Albany Hall Committee acknowledged the support of the Auckland Council and the Upper Harbour Local Board in helping fund the commemoration. Special thanks were extended to Reverend Palmer, flag orderly Sergeant Ray Mansell (RNZAF, retired), bugler Dan Fordyce, MC Margaret Miles, participating students and school staff, and the volunteers who assisted with event setup and hospitality, plus local businesses such as Warehouse Stationery Albany, providing support for the event.
Michelle Beard – Author – BNH Ambassador
