Eden Park pays special tribute on ANZAC Day

The Last Post echoed across an empty Eden Park this morning as New Zealand's largest sporting venue staged a unique ANZAC Day dawn service.

With New Zealand marking this year's ANZAC Day in lockdown, bugler Andrew McDowall played the Last Post alone in the middle of the stadium at 6am.

The sound echoed across the empty stadium and reverberated in the quiet streets, as neighbours lined up outside their properties to pay their respects.

McDowall a member of the local Balmoral Scouts group played a genuine Second World War bugle during the commemoration.

The symbolic moment was as part of an initiative created by the Balmoral Scouts group who usually come together to celebrate ANZAC Day together.

Local Scouts and Cubs were encouraged to tune into the broadcast safely from their driveways to remember those who fought for our country. He acted as a representative from Eden Park's local Scouts group is playing The Last Post for the community to tune in to.

Commenting on the significance of the commemoration, Eden Park Chief Executive, Nick Sautner stated "we are a proud New Zealand icon with a history of achievement both on and off the field - 13 All Blacks lost their lives during World War One including Dave Gallaher who captained The Originals in 1905."

Images: Bugler Andrew McDowall plays the Last Post alone in the middle of Eden Park at dawn today (top), the stadium lit up in poppy red (middle) and its screens commemorate the dawn event (below). Courtesy of Eden Park.