The Wellington Cenotaph is a mighty bronze sculpture of a triumphant figure on horseback atop a tall post. Commemorating the fallen New Zealanders from World War I and World War II, it is the epicenter of the annual Anzac Day celebrations in Wellington. Visit the Wellington Cenotaph and meditate on the efforts made and the tragic loss of life during these wars.
The monument was initially unveiled as a World War I memorial in 1931. After World War II, two bronze lions and an array of bronze friezes referencing the second war were added. Gaze up at the long obelisk at the center of the monument, which lights up at night.
Climb the steps and walk between the two lion sculptures for a closer look at the structure. Study the various emblems and engravings on the white external wall of the cenotaph. These feature war imagery of soldiers, aircraft and military trucks.
Gaze up at the bronze statue on the top of the podium, where a soldier rides horseback, with his hand outstretched in the air in defiance or pride. Snap photos of the impressive statue, with the towers of central Wellington making up the backdrop. The Turnbull House and the Beehive, a wing of the New Zealand Parliamentary Buildings, have remarkable designs.
Note that services and celebrations take place here yearly on Anzac Day in late April. This national day of remembrance in both New Zealand and Australia pays tribute to those who fought across all wars. The monument was built by sculptor Richard Gross and designed by Grierson, Aimer and Draffin.
The Wellington Cenotaph stands opposite the New Zealand Parliamentary Buildings in the northern part of the city center. Travel by train to the Wellington railway station and walk west for a few minutes to see the memorial. While you’re here, check out the adjacent Supreme Court of New Zealand, the Victoria University’s Law School and the Wellington High Court.
