Dozens of Anzac Day events in New Zealand have been cancelled amid heightened security fears but organisers in terror-struck Christchurch say they won't be scared away.
Only 26 commemorations will go ahead in Auckland this month, compared to 84 last year, as organisers from Returned and Services' Associations (RSAs) consolidate gatherings over lingering security fears after the March 15 shootings at two Christchurch mosques.
While they have not issued any orders, police have been talking to co-ordinators and recommending events been merged for public safety.
"Consolidating events for this year's commemorations enables police to ensure resources are deployed appropriately across services," Superintendent Karyn Malthus said.
"There is no information about a specific threat to Anzac events at this time. However it's important that the public be safe and feel safe."
ANZAC Day Service held at the Auckland War Memorial Museum Cenotaph, Auckland Domain. Source: NEW ZEALAND DEFENCE FORCE
The largest event, at Auckland's War Memorial Museum, is still set to go ahead.
Armed police continue to maintain a heavy presence around New Zealand following the terror attack that killed 50.
But in Christchurch itself, organisers say events will take place as planned.
ANZAC Day Service held at the Auckland War Memorial Museum Cenotaph, Auckland Domain. Source: NEW ZEALAND DEFENCE FORCE
Local RSA president Peter Dawson said while he understood the reasoning in Auckland, due to the higher population, his organisation had opted to continue.
"We believe we have a duty to those that went before us to continue with Anzac Day and get back to normality as soon as we can, he told Radio NZ.
"We don't believe we'd be honouring that sacrifice if we allowed one person to destroy that faith, that heritage and that commemoration."
Police are expected to provide bus barricades and checkpoints at the event.
ANZAC Day Service held at the Auckland War Memorial Museum Cenotaph, Auckland Domain. Source: NEW ZEALAND DEFENCE FORCE
