National War Memorial Awarded Status Of National Historic Landmark

"I am delighted to announce that the National War Memorial at Pukeahu National War Memorial Park has been made a National Historic Landmark of Aotearoa New Zealand," says Secretary for Culture and Heritage Leauanae Laulu Mac Leauanae.

"Receiving this recognition for our country’s National War Memorial is incredibly significant, and it is only the second place in New Zealand to receive Landmark status.

"The National War Memorial is central to Pukeahu and the story of Aotearoa New Zealand. It speaks to the service and sacrifice made by New Zealanders in efforts to create peace for the future.

"The Carillon Tower is currently being seismically strengthened so that it is preserved and protected for present and future generations of New Zealanders to enjoy," says Leauanae.

The National Historic Landmark status is awarded by the Minister for Arts, Culture and Heritage with support from Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga. The programme celebrates and safeguards our key national sites so everyone can appreciate their stories and significance for generations to come.

National Historic Landmarks are places of outstanding national heritage value that tell the stories of who we are as New Zealanders. "As the agency that administers the programme, we are proud to formally recognise the National War Memorial in this way. This status reflects the memorial’s profound significance to our national heritage, speaking to the sacrifice, resilience and evolving identity of our nation" says Chief Executive Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga Andrew Coleman.

"This recognition is the result of a comprehensive and inclusive process, with strong stakeholder and public support from across the motu.

"We thank all those who took part in shaping this important decision - it’s a landmark moment, not just for the National War Memorial, but for the people of New Zealand," says Coleman.

A formal dedication at the National War Memorial will be made when the building reopens after its seismic strengthening work is complete.

Notes:

For more information about the National War Memorial, visit the Manatū Taonga website: https://www.mch.govt.nz/our-work/memorials-and-commemorations/pukeahu-national-war-memorial-park

The National Historic Landmark programme:

• National Historic Landmarks are places of outstanding national heritage value that tell the stories of who we are as New Zealanders.
• To become a Landmark, places must already be recognised on the New Zealand Heritage List Rārangi Kōrero and meet the criteria as a significant national heritage site, demonstrating outstanding historical, physical, and/or cultural importance, and have wide public support for the status.
• Demonstrated commitment to risk preparedness and protection mechanisms are crucial for achieving this top-tier recognition, with Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga staff working with site owners to ensure a risk management plan is in place providing special consideration during emergencies.
• Te Pitowhenua/Waitangi Treaty Grounds was named as the first National Historic Landmark in 2019. Read more information on the Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga website: https://www.heritage.org.nz/list-details/10001/Te-Pitowhenua-Waitangi-Treaty-Grounds
• Two heritage places in the South Island are currently proposed for Landmark recognition: Ōamaru Historic Town Centre and Port, and Te Matatiki Toi Ora The Arts Centre.

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