Anzac Day remains one of New Zealand’s most significant days of remembrance. It is a time to reflect on the courage, service and loss connected to war, and to honour returned and current New Zealand Defence Force personnel.

A range of dawn, civic and retreat services will be held across the district, with commemorations taking place in Foxton, Levin, Manakau, Moutoa, Ōhau, Shannon, Tokomaru and Waitārere Beach.

Mayor Bernie Wanden says Anzac Day continues to hold deep meaning for communities across Horowhenua.

“Anzac Day gives us the chance to stop, reflect and remember those who served our country, and those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

“It is also an opportunity for people of all ages to come together as a community, pay their respects and acknowledge the lasting impact of service across generations.”

People are encouraged to attend a local service and take part in this year’s commemorations.

Anzac Day observances in Horowhenua on Saturday 25 April 2026

Foxton 28th Māori Battalion Service

5.45am – Head to cenotaph for Foxton Dawn Service
6.30am – Service at St John’s Methodist Church, Avenue Road, following the Dawn Service

Foxton Dawn Service

5.30am – Assemble on Clyde Street, outside Foxton Memorial Hall
5.45am – Parade moves off to Cenotaph
6.00am – Cenotaph Service begins
Wet weather alternative: Service will take place in Foxton Memorial Hall

Foxton Civic Ceremony

9.00am – Te Awahou Nieuwe Stroom, Main Street
9.35am – Parade assembles on Wharf Street and moves off to Cenotaph
9.40am – Cenotaph Service begins
Wet weather alternative: Ceremony will take place inside Te Awahou Nieuwe Stroom

Levin Dawn Service

5.45am – Assemble on the corner of Kent and Winchester Streets
6.00am – Parade moves off to Cenotaph
6.15am – Cenotaph Service begins
6.45am – Return parade down Kent Street
Wet weather alternative: Service will take place at Levin RSA

Levin Civic Ceremony

10.00am – Parade assembles on Kent Street, past Thompson House Gardens
10.10am – Parade moves off to Cenotaph
10.15am – Cenotaph Service begins
Wet weather alternative: Ceremony will take place in Te Takeretanga o Kura-hau-pō

Levin Retreat Ceremonies

4.45pm – The Avenue Cemetery
5.15pm – Tiro Tiro Road Cemetery

Manakau Special Memorial Service

7.20am – Assemble outside Manakau Hall to march to the War Memorial in Honi Taipua Street

Moutoa Civic Ceremony

9.00am – Moutoa Memorial Gates, Foxton-Shannon Road

Ōhau Civic Ceremony

3.00pm – Formal reflections and acknowledgement of Anzac Day at Ōhau Community Hall
3.30pm – Tea, coffee and Anzac biscuits, all welcome

Shannon Civic Ceremony

11.15am – Parade assembles at the corner of Vance Street and Plimmer Terrace
11.25am – Parade moves off to Cenotaph
11.30am – Cenotaph Service begins

Wet weather alternative: Ceremony will take place in Shannon Memorial Hall

Tokomaru Civic Ceremony

10.00am – RSA and Country Club, Matipo Street

Waitārere Beach Civic Ceremony

8.30am – Tea and coffee at Waitārere Beach Bowling Club, Park Avenue
9.00am – Service begins

Road closures

Some temporary road closures will be in place to support the safety of participants and the public during parades and services. People are asked to follow signage and allow a little extra time when travelling on the day.

Wet Weather contingency

If bad weather is forecast, ceremonies will move indoors where possible. Any venue changes will be announced on Council’s Facebook page (@HorowhenuaDC) on the morning of Anzac Day.

Lest we forget.

Figures released by Stats NZ in February showed that the unemployment rate for 15 to 24-year-olds across New Zealand was at 16.5 percent, three times higher than the overall unemployment rate.

Mayor Bernie Wanden says across Horowhenua there are young people and jobseekers who want to work, contribute and build a future for themselves and their whānau, but who sometimes need the right support to take that next step.

“In every corner of Horowhenua there are young people and jobseekers who want to contribute, who want to work, and who want to build a future for themselves and their whānau,” Mayor Wanden says. “Often, what makes the difference is someone backing them, building their confidence, and helping open the door.”

Mayor Wanden says that what makes Mayors Taskforce for Jobs so special, is the unique way in which the team can support our job seekers. “Whether that be needing support to get the right gear to do the job, or a license that sets you up for success, that’s the true gold of this programme.”

Kereana Leith, MTFJ Community Employment Connector says the Mayors Taskforce for Jobs Community Employment Programme demonstrates the power of community‑led local solutions to address employment challenges, particularly for young people aged 16 to 24. Delivered at a grassroots level, the programme provides one‑on‑one support for jobseekers, helping them prepare for work and move into roles that are meaningful and sustainable. At the same time, it works directly with employers to understand their needs and support them to connect with local people.

With many people across the wider region facing growing financial pressure and barriers to employment, this local, community-led approach continues to play an important role in connecting young people with practical support, local employers and pathways into meaningful work.

“The Mayors Taskforce for Jobs recognises that one size doesn’t fit all,” says Kereana. “By working locally and in partnership with central government, councils and communities can tailor solutions that reflect the realities on the ground.”

The programme is designed to support both sides of the employment relationship.

Tyson Jones, Work Ready Champion says “This is about supporting people into work, but it’s also about supporting employers. When local businesses hire through this programme, they are not just filling a vacancy. They are investing in someone’s confidence, capability and future, while helping build a stronger local workforce.”

Local employers are encouraged to get in touch if they are looking for employees or want to understand how the programme can support their business. People who are looking for work, training or a new opportunity are also encouraged to reach out.

“If you are an employer looking for your next team member, we want to hear from you. And if you are someone looking for work or needing support to take that next step, we are here to help. This programme is about backing our people and backing our community” adds Tyson.

In May 2024, the Community Employment Programme reached a significant national milestone, with more than 6,000 predominantly young people placed into work across rural and provincial Aotearoa since early 2020. During the 2023/24 year alone, 1,404 people benefitted from the programme, exceeding the 1,111 outcomes it was contracted to deliver.

The Mayors Taskforce for Jobs is a nationwide movement of mayors committed to ensuring all young people are engaged in employment, education or training within their communities. For more information, visit the Mayors Taskforce for Jobs section, email mtfj@horowhenua.govt.nz or free phone 0800 944 994.

Held at Te Awahou Riverside Cultural Park from 8.30am to 3pm, the free family event will kick off New Zealand Dutch Week and bring Foxton to life with colour, music, games, food and plenty of Dutch flair.

Get ready to grab something orange and head to Foxton. The much-loved Big Dutch Day Out is back on Saturday 18 April 2026 – with a vibrant celebration of Dutch culture, community and fun for all ages.

One of the day’s most popular highlights is the famous Orange Bike Ride, with registrations opening at 8.30am and the ride getting underway at 9am. People are encouraged to dress themselves, and their bikes, in orange and join the fun as they roll through town in a sea of colour.

Visitors can also enjoy traditional Dutch games, dress up in Dutch costume, soak up the lively sounds of Amsterdam street music, and tuck into Dutch favourites like croquettes and fries. A visit to the iconic De Molen Windmill and Oranjehof Dutch Connection Centre is also a must, with plenty of opportunities to discover the stories of Dutch migrants who made Aotearoa New Zealand their home.

Foxton Windmill Trust Chair Judy Sanson says Big Dutch Day Out is a celebration of heritage, community and connection. 

“While De Molen is a symbol of Dutch heritage, it is also a symbol of how community and cultures came together to build an iconic working heritage building right here in Foxton.

“It brings tens of thousands of visitors to town each year and creates a positive impact for our local business and tourism community, while also sharing Dutch culture and history with visitors from near and far.

“There is a real sense that this event is gezellig. It is a Dutch word that describes a warm, cosy, friendly atmosphere where people feel welcome, enjoy being together and have fun. It is about connection, comfort and sharing a good time, and that is exactly what Big Dutch Day Out is all about.

“Any profit from Big Dutch Day Out will go towards the maintenance fund for the blades on De Molen. With the salt-laden winds here in Foxton, maintenance is needed from time to time to help make sure the windmill continues to operate well into the future.”

Mayor Bernie Wanden says Big Dutch Day Out is one of those special events that has something for everyone. 

“From the famous Orange Bike Ride to the music, food and family fun, it is a fantastic way to experience Foxton’s unique Dutch heritage and enjoy a great day out together.”

“Events like this help bring communities together, celebrate what makes places like Foxton Special and create the kind of connection and vibrancy that supports community wellbeing.”

“If you have never been before, this is the year to get along to Foxton, wear orange and be part of the fun.”

This year’s event will also include the launch of New Zealand Dutch Week, with Netherlands Ambassador Ard van der Vorst attending.

Event details
Date: Saturday 18 April 2026
Time: 8.30am to 3pm
Where: Te Awahou Riverside Cultural Park, Foxton
Entry: Free

For more information, visit teawahou.com/Whats-On

Council’s Community Facilities and Services Manager Mark Hammond says, “Council knows there is never a good time to temporarily close a well-used facility, but the work is needed to keep the Aquatic Centre safe, reliable and fit for purpose for the community.” 

“We know this will be inconvenient for many people, especially regular users, families and those who rely on the different facilities or swim programmes.” 

“While disruption is not ideal, this is about Council investing in the long-term future of our community facilities so they can continue to support a thriving, connected Horowhenua,” Mayor Bernie Wanden adds.

The full Aquatic Centre closure will begin on Monday 13 April, with the facility planned to reopen on Monday 11 May.

Mark Hammond says, “Organising this kind of work is always challenging, and we do everything we can to reduce disruption to our swim school, fitness programme, and school holidays. It’s not easy, but that’s why we’ve chosen these dates.”

The Hydrotherapy Pool will close a week earlier from Monday 6 April, so ceiling tiles above the pool can be replaced before the full shutdown begins. This will also allow a new hydrotherapy pool liner to be installed.

During the closure, Foxton Pools will remain open, with additional classes and extended hours where possible. Swim lessons and some aquatic programmes will also continue at Foxton Pool where they can, and Swim School families will receive direct communication about any changes affecting them.

The work includes renewals to pool tanks, membranes, tiling, grouting and expansion joints, along with upgrades to circulating pumps, filtration and heating systems. Other work includes repairs to hardware, masonry, cladding, flooring, painting and replacement of the water supply on the eastern side of the facility, including hot water supply to the changing rooms.

While the closure will not be ideal for some, the work is necessary. Council appreciates the community’s patience while this work is completed and look forward to welcoming everyone back to a refreshed Levin Aquatic Centre.

We will continue to share updates on its website and Facebook pages as the project progresses.

For more information, visit the Levin Aquatic Centre Maintenance and Renewal Works project page

On Friday the Hutt Valley, Kāpiti and Johnsonville lines will be running with increased capacity added after the game and there will be extra services on these lines before and after Saturday’s match.

The Wairarapa Line will be running on its usual timetable – with Friday’s last service leaving Wellington Station at 10.25pm and Saturday’s last service at 6.55pm.

Core bus routes will have increased capacity, and the East-by-West ferry will be running at standard operating times. 

Metlink recommends using a Snapper card to tag on and off, instead of cash, to access discounted fares.  

Plan ahead and travel early on game day using the latest travel information on the Metlink app, website, or by calling 0800 801 700.    

This much-loved triathlon series brings together tamariki, rangatahi and their whānau for two fun-filled days of movement, energy and community connection. Held in Shannon and Levin, both events feature run, cycle and swim legs designed for tamariki aged three and up, with caregivers encouraged to take part too.

“This is a brilliant way for whānau to get active together in a supportive, feel-good environment,” says Mayor Bernie Wanden. “It is not about competition. It is about building confidence, having fun and spending time together. We encourage everyone to come along and be part of the action. Keep an eye on our social media for updates.”

Event details

Shannon: Friday 20 February from 5pm to 7pm at Shannon School, $2 entry
Levin: Sunday 22 February from 10am to 2pm at Levin Aquatic Centre, $5 entry
Foxton: The previously advertised Foxton event will not proceed due to very low registrations.

What to expect

• Age group categories for 3 to 5, 6 to 7, 8 to 10, and 11 and over
• Run, cycle and swim courses suited to all levels
• Sausage sizzles, goodie bags and spot prizes
• Caregivers welcome to join in
• On site photographers capturing the fun

The Let’s Move Together Triathlon series aligns with Council’s priority to enhance health and wellbeing initiatives, as outlined in the Community Wellbeing Strategy 2024-2027. By hosting regular events and programmes, the series actively promotes community health and wellbeing.

Register now

Register online at aquatics.horowhenua.govt.nz
On the day registrations are also available at the Shannon event.

Now operating from Oxford Street, with a dedicated training centre opening in February, AllTrain’s move reflects both confidence in the district’s growth and a long-standing commitment to supporting local industry with practical, high-quality training.

Founded in 2014, AllTrain has built a strong reputation across the lower North Island as specialists in vehicle training and machine operator training. Their courses include WorkSafe forklift training, heavy truck (HT), dangerous goods (DG), elevated work platforms (EWP), working at Heights (WAH) and a wide range of industrial certifications delivered with flexibility at the core.

AllTrain director Maria Bayley says “We’ve been working with Horowhenua businesses for some time. Either clients came to us in Palmerston North, or we travelled to them to deliver courses on site. Establishing a base in Levin is a natural progression, it’s another branch for us and a district where we already have strong relationships.”

Responding to Opportunity and Infrastructure Growth

Maria, who has a background in hospitality, customer service roles and sales before owning Alltrain, saw clear opportunity in Horowhenua. New roads, infrastructure investment and business growth are creating demand for skilled operators and for training providers who can respond quickly.

“We see a gap in the market,” she explains. “What sets us apart is how flexible we are, and courses run around our clients’ needs, not the other way around. Whether it’s tailored packages, large groups, or accelerated programmes, we design training that works in the real world.”

AllTrain also maintains a training database that proactively notifies businesses when staff certifications are due for renewal, helping employers stay compliant without the administrative burden.

Deep Community and Industry Connections

Community engagement has been a cornerstone of AllTrain’s approach. The business works collaboratively with organisations such as Talent Central, Best Care (Whakapai Hauora) Charitable Trust and supports re-training initiatives through the Ministry of Social Development.

They are also active participants in industry networks including the Driver Change Network and the Crane Association, ensuring their training remains aligned with industry needs and best practice.

These connections reflect a strong service ethos and one that extends beyond compliance training to genuinely supporting people into work and progression.

Investing in People, Skills and Confidence

AllTrain’s courses are hands-on, practical and outcomes-focused, with a strong emphasis on employability. From driver training to heavy truck licences, programmes are designed to accelerate skills development and open doors to work.

“We’re passionate about upskilling people,” says Maria. “Training isn’t just about licences, it’s about confidence, capability and giving people real pathways into employment.”

That people-first focus was reinforced through Maria’s participation in the Sally Duxfield Women in Business retreat in October 2025, where she connected with other local business owners and gained clarity around AllTrain’s growth goals in Horowhenua.

“It gave me next-level clarity,” she says. “The connections and insight helped confirm that Horowhenua is where we need to be. I highly recommend her coaching”

 Looking Ahead in Horowhenua

As AllTrain opens its Levin training centre, the business is focused on becoming a long-term partner to local employers, supporting workforce development, safety and productivity across the district.

“We’re service-driven and excited about the opportunity to be here,” Maria says. “Horowhenua has momentum, and we’re here to support the community and industry as it grows.”

AllTrain is located on Oxford Street, Levin, with training commencing from February.

For more information, visit www.alltrain.co.nz

Mayor Bernie Wanden says the event is always a highlight for the district. “Christmas is a time to connect, celebrate and enjoy being part of a community. The Parade and Carnival bring out the very best of Horowhenua and it is wonderful to see so many families coming together for this special day. We are very grateful to Higgins for supporting the event again this year.”

The parade will start at 2pm from the corner of Victoria Street and Weraroa Road, travelling along Weraroa Road, turning onto Bath Street and finishing at the Levin Domain on Salisbury Street, where the Christmas Carnival will be waiting with food stalls, games, live entertainment and activities for the whole whānau.

To help the event run safely and smoothly, several streets will be temporarily closed on Saturday 6 December 2025.

• Victoria Street will be closed from 11am to 2.30pm for float assembly, with resident access allowed but no parking during this time.
• Salisbury Street between Queen Street and Bath Street will be closed from 1pm to 6.30pm for the Christmas Carnival.
• Weraroa Road, Bath Street, Hannan Street and Carlisle Street will be closed from 1.45pm to 2.30pm.

Detours will be clearly marked and emergency vehicles will have immediate access if required.

Other Christmas Events Across the District

Foxton Christmas Fair – Saturday 29 November 2025, 10am to 3pm

A lively market day in Foxton with food trucks, craft stalls, live music, kids activities, a petting zoo, classic cars and photos with Santa.

Candlelit Christmas – Stories and Carols – Saturday 6 December 2025, 7.30pm to 8.45pm

A peaceful evening of carols and storytelling led by HYPE Youth at Levin Uniting Church, with hundreds of candles creating a warm and reflective atmosphere. Free entry.

Thompson Memorial Cultural Centre, from Saturday 6 December 2025

The Centre and Gardens will be transformed with Christmas lights and displays, creating a festive Christmas house experience. The Centre will be open to the public on Saturday 20 and Sunday 21 December, with Father Christmas attending and a model railway in the gardens.

Shannon Christmas Parade & Celebrations – Sunday 14 December 2025, 9am to 3pm

A full day of festive fun in Shannon with live music, food stalls, bouncy castles, free tamariki activities and a welcoming Kaumātua Space. The parade begins at 11.30am.

Christmas Avenue of Trees – Friday 12 to Sunday 14 December 2025

A magical display of decorated Christmas trees, festive lights and Santa’s Lounge at the Levin Uniting Church and Community Centre. Entry is a non-perishable food item or two dollars, supporting local food banks.

With so many events happening across Horowhenua, it is the perfect time to gather your whānau, enjoy the celebrations and soak up the Christmas spirit.

Road Closures

• Temporary Road Closures – Horowhenua Christmas Parade

The Awards brought together recipients, whānau and supporters for an evening acknowledging service, commitment and local achievement. The event highlighted the many ways people contribute to the strength and wellbeing of Horowhenua, often quietly and without seeking recognition.

Hosted by Mayor Bernie Wanden, the ceremony honoured three Civic Honour recipients, four Certificates of Recognition recipients and fifteen outstanding young people through the Youth Excellence Scholarships.

Mayor Bernie says the Awards were an opportunity to reflect on the difference people make when they choose to support their community.

“These recipients are the people who step forward when something needs to be done. They give their time generously, they support others, and they help create a district where people feel connected and supported. Their impact is significant, and we are proud to recognise them.”

“It is a privilege to celebrate individuals whose actions strengthen Horowhenua. Their commitment, compassion and willingness to help others make a real and lasting contribution to our district. The Awards remain one of the most meaningful and uplifting events of the year,” Mayor Bernie adds.

Youth Excellence Scholarships were presented in arts and culture, sport, community service and academia. These scholarships recognise the effort, talent and leadership of local rangatahi and provide practical support as they work toward their future goals.

Civic Honours were awarded to:

Mary Davis
Jeffrey Paulin
Wayne and Debra Kaye

Pictured below: Civic Honours recipients with Mayor Bernie, (from left to right) Wayne and Debra Kaye, Mary Davis and Jeffrey Paulin.

Certificates of Recognition were presented to:

Corey Prouting
Frank Taylor
Jack Gibson
Robert Ropata Remihana

Pictured above: Certificate of Recognition recipients with Mayor Bernie, (from left to right) Ropata Remihana, Frank Taylor, Corey Prouting and Jack Gibson.
Pictured below: Civic Honour and Certificates of Recognition recipients with Mayor Bernie.

Youth Excellence Scholarships were awarded to:

Arts and Culture

Haewon Kim
Hunter Kahukuranui Pakau
Pusa Fonoti
Saoirse Williamson

Community Service

Tyson Jones
Sienna Laplanche
Dycen Taituha
Owen Winstanley

Sport

William Dunsmore
Fletcher Warren
Anahera Easton
Finn Pedersen

Academia

Tareesha Kiran
Liam Roach
Youan Salt

Pictured below: Youth Excellence Scholarship recipients.

Youth Excellence Arts and Culture recipients also shared performances during the evening, offering a glimpse of the talent and creativity present across Horowhenua.

“The Awards highlighted the value of giving back to the community. When people choose to contribute their time, energy and skills, it strengthens the whole district. These recipients show what community in action looks like, and we appreciate all they do,” Mayor Bernie ends.

✨ What to Expect
Ease into the evening with local wines, dessert nibbles, and gentle background music by a talented youth musician. Then, as dusk settles, enjoy 75 minutes of exquisite acoustic music, curated to uplift and inspire.

🎶 Guest Artists: Saxcess
New Zealand’s premier saxophone quartet, Saxcess, delivers a rich kaleidoscope of sounds  swing, classical, tango, cutting-edge NZ contemporary, and much more. For decades, they’ve delighted audiences young and old across Aotearoa and beyond.

Saxcess members:

• Debbie Rawson (soprano/alto)
• Richard Marin (soprano/alto)
• Franz Ombler (tenor)
• Rachel Collingridge (baritone)

Let your ears travel the world, from the bold energy of Latin American saxophone pieces to the inventive sounds of New Zealand compositions.

Founded and led by Debbie Rawson, Saxcess is a project-based collective that has toured nationwide for nearly 30 years and have played all major Arts Festivals in Aotearoa, and performed original NZ compositions at Saxophone Congresses in Australia, Belgium, and the USA.

🎹 Pre-Concert Performance (8:15–8:30pm)
Be captivated by rising young pianist Kasra Mitchell-Kouttab, 15, whose talent and passion for classical music have already impressed audiences far beyond his years.

🕯️ Event Details

• Doors: 8:00pm | Pre-show: 8:15pm | Main concert: 8:30–9:45pm
• Venue: Historic local church, transformed by candlelight
• Tickets: $35 | Limited to 100 guests — bookings essential

💛 Music That Feels Good and Does Good
Each concert supports local community programmes — so your night out helps make a difference.

Whether for the spellbinding music, magical setting, or sense of connection, this is an evening you’ll never forget — and one you’ll return to season after season.

Tickets: https://events.humanitix.com/candlelit-concerts-it-s-a-night-out-that-feels-good-and-does-good-f65u6qqj/tickets