Lost luggage containing uniforms and instruments has forced the New Zealand Defence Force to revise plans to commemorate Anzac Day in Gallipoli.
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A 40-strong NZDF contingent arrived in Turkey last week, but without their checked bags owing to a transit through flood-hit Dubai, which caused massive disruptions to the airport operations.
Lost in the mayhem were service dress uniforms and band instruments to be used at the dawn service at Thursday's Anzac Cove and a late-morning NZ-specific service at nearby Chunuk Bair.
"Efforts were made to source musical instruments locally but it had proved very difficult to find the right instruments, particularly given local bands' participation in Turkish services," NZDF Gallipoli lead John McLeod said.
"The contingent would evaluate what had and hadn't arrived on Wednesday morning before deciding how it might take part in the dawn service and how the New Zealand Chunuk Bair service will be delivered.
"It will, however, be delivered.
"We are determined to ensure our Chunuk Bair service honours those who fought here at Gallipoli."
In crisis, the servicemen and women have created a distinctively Kiwi performance.
"Our outstanding vocalist, Lance Corporal Bryony Williams will sing anthems without accompaniment and we have a guitar to support our Maori Cultural group in singing waiata," Mr McLeod said.
Embassy staff managed to retrieve some of the lost luggage by Tuesday night, but only one instrument and some of the uniforms.
RSA chief executive Marty Donoghue told the NZ Herald he expected some would be "absolutely gutted" but he was unsurprised by their ability to re-imagine the service.
"Kiwis have always been known for their ability to adapt and overcome," he said.
Hundreds of dawn and civic services will be held across NZ on Thursday, from Kaitaia in the Far North to Oban, on Stewart Island, in the deep south.
However, the biggest group of NZDF personnel to commemorate the occasion will be found in the unlikely location of Mt Smart Stadium on Thursday afternoon.
The New Zealand Warriors NRL side say the hundreds involved in their Anzac Day-themed match with Gold Coast Titans is the largest number of serving Kiwis gathering anywhere in the world.
That will include the NZ Army Band - who have not lost their instruments - including a bugler, the navy guard, an air force helicopter delivering the match ball and military working dogs in the half-time show.
"We're extremely grateful to the New Zealand Defence Force for lending such valuable support to ensure we are able to mark the day in a dignified and respectful way," club boss Cameron George said.
"While Anzac had its origins on the beaches and hills of the Gallipoli Peninsula over a century ago, this day continues to symbolise the very close bonds we have with our Australian friends."
Australian Associated Press
