Hall of Memories
The plans for the Hall of Memories were originally drawn up in the 1920s, but the Great Depression of the 1930s and then World War II put the project on indefinite hold. It was not until April 1964 that the Hall of Memories was finally opened.
The hall is entered via the vestibule at the base of the Carillon tower. Soaring columns on each side give a commanding impression of height and beauty, and stained glass windows create an attractive effect of colour and light.
Six recesses, or mini-chapels, flank each side and each has its own dedicated plaque of remembrance to the arms of the forces in which New Zealanders served. The flags of each service hang immediately above. Also within the recesses are four mounted wall plaques commemorating the conflicts in South Africa, Korea, Malaysia and Vietnam.
The focal point of the Hall, sculptor Lynden Smith's statue Mother and Children,stands within the Sanctuary. The statue is both a gentle and powerful image of the suffering and burden carried by a family during time of war.
On display behind glass on each side of the Sanctuary is the nation's Roll of Honour. Within these books are the names of all the New Zealand war dead. The coats of arms of the nine New Zealand provinces flank the walls above the books. The Lamp of the Brotherhood, dedicated to preserving remembrance and unity, is mounted on the back wall.
Carved in stone above the Sanctuary are doves of peace and verses from Psalm 139.
Two large columns flank the steps to the sanctuary, each bearing engravings of members of the Commonwealth who fought in the two world wars, their coats of arms linked by stylised branches to the Tree of the Commonwealth.
The Hall is famed for its wonderful acoustics and to hear a choir perform is an uplifting and moving experience.
Word's from Binyon's Ode to the Fallen are set within bronze on the rear wall.
ODE TO THE FALLEN
Age shall not weary them
Nor the years condemn
At the going down of the sun
And in the morning
We will remember them.
Laurence Binyon
Wreath laying ceremonies are regularly held to commemorate the many wars and campaigns that New Zealand has participated in. Many Heads of State and members of royal families have attended and laid wreaths to the fallen.
The beautiful Hall of Memories is a place for quiet reflection.
Images on this page are copyright to Ministry for Culture and Heritage and New Zealand Defence Force.