27 May 2016

Commemorating WWI’s Greatest Sea Battle: Jutland 1916

On 31 May 2016 events over land and sea in New Zealand and the United Kingdom will mark the 100th anniversary of the greatest naval battle fought in World War 1.

The Chief of Navy, Rear Admiral John Martin, will represent the Royal New Zealand Navy in the Orkney Islands at a national day of commemorations involving descendants, old enemies turned firm allies, and military and political leaders, to remember the Battle of Jutland.

Commemorations in New Zealand

Sunday 29 May: The Kaiapoi Returned Services Association (RSA) Battle of Jutland Service, Kaiapoi RSA in conjunction with HMNZS Pegasus. The service will take place at Kaiapoi Cenotaph, Raven Quay, Kaiapoi at 2.30pm, followed by a wreath-laying ceremony.

Tuesday 31 May: Battle of Jutland Exhibition Opening, South Canterbury Museum, Timaru at 5pm (the Battle Flag from HMS New Zealand is the central display item in the exhibition).

Tuesday 31 May: A service commemorating the 100th anniversary of the Battle of Jutland in conjunction with the Auckland Council will be held at the National Museum of the Royal New Zealand Navy, Torpedo Bay, and Devonport.

Commemoration in the United Kingdom

Tuesday 31 May: On Orkney, a national service of remembrance will be held in the impressive setting of St Magnus’ Cathedral, Kirkwall, followed by a ceremony at Lyness Royal Naval Cemetery on the island of Hoy, overlooking Scapa Flow.

Other events, including commemorations at the naval memorials in Chatham, Portsmouth and Plymouth, will also take place to mark the centenary of the Battle of Jutland.

ENDS

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