Australia and New Zealand mark Anzac Day 2026 in Kanchanaburi
Before first light today, Australians, New Zealanders and friends of both nations gathered at Hellfire Pass in Kanchanaburi Province to commemorate Anzac Day in Thailand.
Each year, Anzac Day marks the anniversary of the first major military action fought by Australian and New Zealand forces during the First World War who landed in Gallipoli in 1915. ANZAC stands for ‘Australian and New Zealand Army Corps’. The soldiers in those forces became known as Anzacs, and the pride they took in that name endures to this day.
The Dawn Service was hosted by the Australian and New Zealand embassies in Thailand at the historic site of the former Thai–Burma Railway. More than 1000 people attended, which included veterans and families of defence personnel, Thai government representatives, Thai Ministry of Defence and Royal Thai military representatives, and members of the public. Australian Special Envoy for Defence, Veterans’ Affairs, and Northern Australia Mr Luke Gosling OAM MP, also joined the service.
Australian Ambassador to Thailand Dr Angela Macdonald PSM highlighted the event’s significance.
“Anzac Day is one of Australia’s most important national occasions,” Ambassador Macdonald said. “It’s a time where we reflect, remember and commemorate those who lost their lives in military and peacekeeping operations. We’re reminded of the enduring values of courage and mateship that continue to bring people together across borders. We saw this at Hellfire Pass, and from those who joined our Facebook livestream from across Australia, New Zealand, and Thailand. Lest we forget.”
New Zealand Ambassador to Thailand Mr Jonathan Kings said Australia and New Zealand share a long history of partnership and sacrifice.
“As we remember the past, we also today reaffirm together our shared commitment to peace, service and the values that continue to unite our nations today,” he said.
“Ka maumahara tonu tātou ki a rātou. We will remember them.”
Their Excellencies and other dignitaries laid wreaths to honour the fallen, which was followed by The Last Post bugle call and a minute of silence.
Following the service, attendees joined a gunfire breakfast, continuing an Anzac Day tradition which provided an additional opportunity for reflection and connection.
