Anzac Day: War letters to home
Sunday marks the 106-year anniversary of the first landing of New Zealand and Australian soldiers at Anzac Cove on the Gallipoli Peninsula.
For many of the 16000 soldiers, April 25, 1915 marked their first day of combat.
And by that night, 2000 had been killed or maimed.
We remember our Auckland veterans and fallen soldiers with their letters to friends and loved ones back home.
Here are letters from Michael Menzies, a Prisoner of War in Japan, to his friend Norm Ryder:
6/5/45
Dear Norm,
Still existing and anticipating a speedy reunion.
Appreciate your kind thoughts and wishes.
I often have the Queen St blues and a perpetual Waitemata thirst and occasionally a nicotine fit.
Received three of your letters and am anxiously
awaiting for more.
Your Affectionate Pal
Snowy
Michael Menzies' letter to his relatives:
2/12/43
Dear Auntie Kate and Ange,
I received your very welcomed letter dated May 25th on Nov 25 th.
Although Jack has received a parcel from St Johns Association London and a very brief letter from Kathleen, this is the first I have received in twenty two long months.
I had given up all hope of getting mail so imagine the thrill it gave me.
There is only one thing I need Auntie and that is news, especially of Pat.
Please don’t keep it from me if anything has happened to him for that would only hurt me all the more.
I can’t help but think the worst has happened to him.
How is everyone in New Zealand?
I have made several radio broadcasts from here, did you hear any of them?
Of course I know you’ll understand when I tell you that our correspondence is limited in more ways than one.
Please don’t send money as you suggested, but a few packs of cigarettes, gum, and a photo would be very welcome.
Apart from a few attacks of asthma Jack is very well and sends his love to all.
I assure you Auntie that you have no need to worry so much over Jack or myself as we are both together which makes it much easier on me and under the circumstances the treatment is fair enough.
There are many things I want to ask you and tell you but unfortunately they will have to wait until peace has been restored once more to this mad world.
Well auntie I sincerely hope this letter finds you in the very best of health and
Along with it I send the seasons greetings and all my love.
Lots and lots of love.
Mick
Auckland Star Nov 1945 (2).PDF story about Menzies brothers as Prisoners of War.PDF Download View
What's your favourite recipe for courgettes?
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Te Atatu Food Truck Friday Christmas market - THIS Friday - December 6th
Te Atatu Food Truck Fridays special Te Atatu Twilight Christmas market is on THIS Friday (December 6th). There will be a selection of Auckland’s best street food along with over 25 Christmas market stalls inside the main hall and Te Atatu repair café. Get your Christmas shopping done and get some tasty dinner treats too!
Save the date at Save the date at www.facebook.com....
December 6th - 4:30pm to 8:30pm – Te Atatu South Community Centre.
The food trucks joining the night will be:
- Those Guys J & M - Philly cheese steak rolls, burgers, fries and irresistible cookies.
- Baya Taco’s - Everyone's favourite authentic Mexican cuisine queen.
- Mr and Mrs Food - tasty meat on rice/ chip dishes, summer rolls and crunchy cheesy hotdogs
- The Langos Lady- Hungarian Fried Bread with sweet and savoury toppings
- Akemi’s Gyoza - Japanese Dumplings that just get you craving more.
- Cream Ice Cream – Delicious real fruit ice cream and chocolate covered strawberries
- Victor and Vern - Coffee and iced, hot chocolate
We will also have a free ReCreators Christmas workshop. The 249 Edmonton road art gallery will also be open with items for sale.
Come grab some tasty food and soak up the community vibes. Plenty of seating available or picnic in the park. Parking available on site and the grass field behind the St Johns hall. Walking or cycling up makes it even easier.
A great way to spend a Friday night.