In 2026 Christ Church Cathedral in the square was illuminated poppy red alongside the city's War Memorial as a mark of commemoration for all Aotearoa New Zealanders who have sacrificed in service of their country.

“I am delighted that Christ Church Cathedral has been lit up for Anzac Day." said Bishop of Christchurch Peter Carrell, who supported the Cathedral to mark its commemorations at the Transitional Cathedral this year.

"The Cathedral cherishes its role of supporting significant events in Christchurch from its place at the heart of the centre of our city.” said Bishop Peter.

Thousands of people walked through Christchurch city's pre-dawn chill on Saturday to join in prayer and remembrance for all those who have sacrificed in armed forces service for Aotearoa New Zealand and Australia. 

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon lauded the city's character as he stood before its partially restored Cathedral and addressed the crowd, which included many former and serving military personnel and invited officials. 

"Here in Ōtautahi Christchurch we know something about resilience. This city has faced its own trials, and through each one the spirit that defines us has held firm. That spirit has a name. We call it the Anzac Spirit, but really it is simply what New Zealanders do. We show up for each other. We do not leave our mates behind, and we rebuild."

This year Cathedral Square-based law firm Buddle Findlay supported the Cathedral to turn red for the Dawn Service alongside the Citizens' War Memorial.

Despite the 111 years since the Gallipoli landings, many communities remain committed to giving thanks for those who have served and sacrificed in wars, conflicts, and peacekeeping operations and honouring their memories.
Dean of Christchurch Cathedral Ben Truman reflected that even though the Cathedral is only partially restored, it remains a powerful spiritual symbol for the city.

"The Cathedral has served as a place of peace, hope, prayer and sacred memory for almost 150 years." he said. 

"Lighting up the Cathedral for our Anzacs allows us to continue to support our city’s tradition upheld by generations." 

The world's first Anzac Day service was held at the Anglican Church of the Good Shepherd on 25 April 1916 in the tiny Wairarapa settlement of Tinui, which still solemnly marks the occasion today. 

Around Aotearoa New Zealand numerous Anglican churches, kura, university colleges, pariha, mission districts and chaplaincies held community services of remembrance for Anzac Day in 2026, including for youth organisations, iwi, military servicepeople, marae and Veteran Associations.