We will remember them at the Art of Remembrance 2026, an annual musical night of remembrance in the Great Hall of Kāhui St David’s, Auckland’s living memorial. On Friday 24 April, join veterans, whānau, and the wider community for an unforgettable evening honouring all members and veterans of the New Zealand Defence Force.

The night features a rich musical and storytelling programme. Unsung Heroes perform original songs and readings from wartime letters, including Cameron Bennett, veteran foreign correspondent, with “Letter to Darkie”, recounting a letter sent to his grandfather from the Western Front. Chris Priestley presents “3 Telegrams (Dad’s Song)”, introduced by Peter Elliott ONZM, TV star and percussionist, telling his father’s story of the battle at Takrouna Hill in Tunisia.

Hear David Harvey on Scottish bagpipes, pūoro by Riki Bennett, University of Auckland Student Choir, hymns led by soprano Michelle Thorne-McHugh, the Off Broadway Big Band and Helen Lukman-Fox on the great pipe organ, with all attendees invited to join in.

The night will begin with a parade of veterans in to the Great Hall. It will include the Last Post, Minute of Silence, and The Rouse and the ceremonial relighting of the Lamp of Remembrance for the year ahead. We will also hear from members of the New Zealand Defence Force.

Join us afterwards for hospitality, and to take a moment to thank our veterans.

Pay-what-you-can. All welcome.

The Art of Remembrance is made possible thanks to the support of the Uptown Business Association, Waitematā Local Board, Sir Stephen & Lady Tindall, The Sir William and Lady Manchester Charitable Trust, Angus Muir Design, Jessica Chloe Photography, and ongoing support from Awhero Nui Charitable Trust, other patrons, friends and volunteers.

Kāhui St David's

Within the Great Hall of St David's Memorial Church, the is the Lamp of Remembrance that honours all veterans. In addition, there are plaques that highlight the Royal Zealand Engineers, the Royal New Zealand Nursing Corps and the 28th Māori Battalion. There are also plaques to the 29th and 30th Infantry Battalions (WWII).

VETERANS - special note

Please email contact@KahuiStDavids.nz to let us know you are coming. You can be part of the military and veterans' parade into the Great Hall, and for this, we need to reserve your seats (for you, and your guests).

Wreaths

If you are bringing a wreath, please let us know in advance so we can ensure there is room for it. Thank you!

Contact the host of Art of Remembrance