Simon Bridges National Party MP simonbridges.co.nz

This weekend we remember our Anzacs - those who've served and died in all wars, conflicts, and peacekeeping operations, and the contribution and suffering they've endured for us. We are truly grateful.

Originally Anzac Day was devised to honour the members of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps forces that landed on the Gallipoli Peninsula on April 25, 1915, during WW1. More than 130,000 men died: 87,000 Ottoman soldiers; 44,000 Allied soldiers, including 2779 New Zealanders. A huge toll for all countries concerned.

Today we think not only of them at Gallipoli but also those who've served since, serve today around the world, and of the general horror of war. Lest we forget.

This year has some added significances. First off, it's the first time Anzac Day has been ‘Mondayised', meaning we'll remember on Sunday and also have a public holiday on Monday.

In addition, given the March 15 terror attack restrictions and then Covid-19, it's the first time in a couple of years we've actually been able to come together in complete freedom at remembrance services locally.

It's a privilege for us as Kiwis to be able to congregate in mass gatherings in a way not all of the world can. I certainly don't take it lightly and will resume the practice I've long held of attending the Tauranga Dawn then Civic Service this year, and the Mount Maunganui one the year after.

Prior to the interruptions of the last couple of years, I've been amazed at the ever-growing crowds at Anzac services here in Tauranga and all over New Zealand. It's incredibly heartening that increasing numbers of New Zealanders seek to publicly mark this day of such national significance. It'd be great to see you at a service this Sunday.