Jacinda Ardern Instagram – Fresh in my mind as we stood at dawn today, were the conflicts and loss that have shaped our past, but also our present. I joined others at the Auckland War Memorial and then at a community service at Mt Albert. Here are a few words that I had the privilege of sharing: In 1916, the first Anzac Day commemorations were held in sober remembrance of those who had been involved in the Gallipoli campaign. More than a century later, this annual recognition of the service and sacrifice of New Zealanders in war remains equally significant, as we take pause to recognise all who have returned from service, and all who have been lost to us… And it is a time to acknowledge all who have been affected by war – those who have lost loved ones, those who have shared the struggles of family members returning from service, and those who have come to us as refugees. Fresh in all our minds is the invasion of Ukraine, a most grim reminder of the fragile nature of peace, and the devastating impact of war on people’s lives. In New Zealand we may feel a great distance from this conflict, but we are all inextricably linked to what it represents. New Zealand has a fiercely independent foreign policy, but that has never ever meant that we sit on the side-lines. It means that when we see injustice, and a threat to the peace and stability we all long for, we act. The invasion of Ukraine is a senseless act of war, one that is taking the lives of innocent people. It is a threat to the international laws that a nation like ours relies on – but it is also a threat to our sense of humanity. And that makes it a threat to all of us. And that is why, once again as conflict rages on the other side of the world, New Zealand is present. Our Hercules is carrying aid and equipment, our people are providing their skills and expertise, our helmets and body armour are protecting their defence force and our aid is caring for those who need it most. Today, on this day, we are yet again reminded that peace cannot be taken for granted. That it must be preserved by the acts of leaders, and protected through the actions of citizens. We must all do our part. Lest we forget.