The Rotorua Returned Services Association are beginning the process of gifting World War One Rotorua District Field of Remembrance crosses to descendants of those soldiers represented.

Supported by Rotorua Lakes Council, the project aims to connect all 109 crosses and one Star of David to appropriate families.

Each cross features the serial number, rank, initials and surname of a soldier from the Rotorua District who served and died as a result of World War One.

Family members are asked to email expressions of interest, including details about the soldier and their family connection to them, to crosses@rotorualc.nz

All expressions of interest need to be received by Monday, August 16, and collection of the crosses will take place in September 2021.

The Rotorua District Field of Remembrance was erected next to the Cenotaph in Government Gardens for the first time in April 2015 as part of the WWI centennial commemorations.

Marking the 100^th anniversary of the Gallipoli landings by ANZAC troops on April 25, 1915, the initial plan was to install it each ANZAC day for four years – covering the WWI centenary years.

Coordinated by the Rotorua WW100 Committee, the research was carried out by Rotorua Museum and local researchers and endorsed by the Rotorua RSA.

The crosses, made by members of Menz Shed Rotorua, included one for 'The Unknown Soldier, Known unto God” – representing the many men who died during WWI but are not known or not recorded.ANZAC Day marks New Zealand's first major engagement of World War One at Gallipoli, Turkey.

While it was a terrible defeat, it has become a legend of sacrifice and this year marks 100 years since New Zealand soldiers landed at Gallipoli.

A full list of those included in the WWI Rotorua District Field of Remembrance is attached or can be found here

Ka maumahara tonu tātau ki a rātau. We will remember them.