Purple Poppy Day

Imagine a battlefield where courage and loyalty transcend human boundaries. This is the story of our animal heroes – brave souls who served without hesitation, and sacrificed without question.

Did you know that more than 8 million animals sacrificed their lives in World War I alone? Horses charging through gunfire, carrier pigeons delivering critical messages, dogs detecting explosives – these remarkable creatures were not just companions, but comrades who changed the course of history. The purple poppy symbolises these brave animals – commemorating the unsung heroes who served alongside our soldiers. By wearing it, you honour their incredible bravery, their unwavering loyalty, and their profound contribution to human conflicts.

Each year on 24 February, the anniversary of the unveiling of our New Zealand War Animal Memorial, we devote the day to commemorating all those animals past and present who have served in some shape or form alongside our armed forces in times of conflict. This has been made possible through the work and support of Nigel Allsopp and the Australian War Animal Memorial Organisation (AWAMO).