Historic Pukeahu National War Memorial Bells to Ring This Anzac Day After 14 Years of Silence

After 14 years of silence and $10 million in repairs, the Pukeahu National War Memorial carillon will ring this Anzac Day with help from an Australian expert.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 22, 2026, 3:19 PM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from RNZ (Radio New Zealand).

The Restoration of a National Musical Icon

The carillon at Pukeahu National War Memorial Park in Wellington is set to play for the public this Saturday, ending a period of silence that has lasted for the majority of the past 14 years. The largest musical instrument in New Zealand has undergone a complex series of earthquake strengthening measures, including the installation of a comprehensive network of steel braces. While the tower has faced a stop-start renovation history since 2012, recent engineering efforts have finally rendered the structure safe for regular use.

Expert Performance for the Commemorative Service

Peter Bray, a renowned carillonist from Australia, has been brought to Wellington to perform during the dawn service and at 11 am on Anzac Day. Bray, who has performed at 70 of the world’s 700 carillons, is representing the Carillon Society of Australia for this historic reopening. His scheduled repertoire for the event includes the traditional Māori piece Pōkarekare Ana, alongside works specifically composed for carillons and various arrangements focused on themes of peace.

The Symbolic Toll of the Rangimarie Bell

A central feature of the upcoming ceremony will be the 12-tonne Rangimarie bell, which is recognized as the third heaviest carillon bell in the world. According to Leauanae Laulu Mac Leauanae, head of the Ministry for Culture and Heritage, the massive bell will be tolled four times during the dawn service. This tradition is a specific tribute to the four branches of service: the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Merchant Navy, ensuring their contributions to global conflict are acknowledged through the instrument’s deepest resonance.