Purple Poppy Day

Most people are unaware that as well as the traditional commemorative red poppy there is also the purple poppy. It symbolises all animals who have served and/or died during conflict. It is estimated that more than 8 million animals sacrificed their lives in World War I alone. As a way to commemorate the animals that have served and those that continue to, you can wear a purple poppy. Let us remember these brave animals, their deeds, and their sacrifices.

On Purple Poppy Day, 24 February each year, the National Army Museum Te Mata Toa remembers and honours the animals that have served (and still do serve) in war and conflict. 

2024 Purple Poppy Day 

On Saturday 24 February 2024 at 11am we held our Purple Poppy Day service outside the Museum at our War Animals Memorial, to remember and honour the animals that have served loyally and given everything in our military history.

This year our guest speaker was Alan Inkpen, Military Working Dog Capability Manager for the NZDF. He gave a moving tribute to the history of our canine companions in conflict, and talked about the connection between a dog and their handler – the service and sacrifice that is pledged between both. Thank you to everyone who attended, especially those who travelled quite a distance. You made this service significant and special. We are humbled and grateful to have had you here. 

2023 Purple Poppy Day 

On Friday 24 February 2023 at 11am we held our Purple Poppy Day service outside the Museum at our War Animals Memorial. We gave a special mention to all the animal friends who came along (we had two beautiful horses, an abundance of dogs, and even a chicken). We also made special mention of the animals affected by Cyclone Gabrielle the week before – our thoughts were with them, their human companions, and all those affected. 

Our guest speaker was Lieutenant Colonel Jacob Murray, Commanding Officer of the Queen Alexandra’s Mounted Rifles. He gave a moving tribute to the horses of our past military and reflected on the sacrifice of all animals who have served alongside our soldiers. Thank you to all those who attended from our community, and from further afield representing your various organisations, units and groups. You helped make our service special and significant, honouring the animals that have served loyally and sacrificed so much in our military history.