It was a special occasion of remembrance for the small town of Ruatorea as they acknowledge the bravery and sacrifice of Moana Nui-a-Kiwa Ngarimu in WWII.
Ngarimu's descendants were present for the special occasion to remember the sacrifice of their close relative.
It's a big occasion with a rich and proud history that has brought the whole town together to remember our war heroes. It was also a day to acknowledge the 30th year of the annual Ngata lectures, started by Sir Tamati Reedy in 1983.
It was also announced today that $250,000 will be invested into research history of the Maori Battalion as well as mentoring programme through a new alumni association in 2015.