Media Release
20 April 2007

Plans finalised for RSA Memorial

A long-held dream for a fitting memorial to local returned service personnel is a step closer with the completion of the design for the Returned Services Association war memorial at Manukau Memorial Gardens.

The idea for the memorial was conceived in 1980 by RSA members from across Counties Manukau, some of whom went on to form the South Auckland Cemetery Trust to progress the project. Spokesman Colin Topp says the trust is thrilled with the designs.

“When completed the memorial will provide a permanent reminder of those who gave their all to preserve our freedom and way of life, the sacrifices they made and hardships they endured during times of conflict.

Located within the Manukau Memorial Gardens the memorial is an extension of the current RSA area.

Designed by Chow:Hill landscape architects, the concept has three key aspects:

- an area for commemoration (gathering)

- an area for remembrance (contemplation)

- an area of education (learning).

The $693,000 project is made possible by contributions from various RSA Women’s Sections, Manurewa and Papatoetoe RSA, Veteran Affairs New Zealand, ASB Trust as well as funding from Manukau City Council’s Community Facility Partnership Scheme.

“Thanks to the drive and determination of the members of the trust, and various RSA members over so many years, combined with the support we’ve had from other organisations that have contributed financially to this memorial, ‘we will remember them’ not just today but into the future,” says Mr Topp.

Construction on the project will start later this year.

ENDS

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