Māori Television’s ANZAC Day coverage will be go to air this year with no commercial breaks – thanks to broadcast sponsor ANZ as part of a wider relationship with the channel confirmed this month (April).

Wayne Besant, Managing Director – ANZ Retail, says ANZ is proud to be a part of this unique television event which was honoured at the 2006 Qantas Television Awards.

Last year’s unprecedented ANZAC broadcast – NĀ RĀTOU, MŌ TĀTOU: THEY DID IT FOR US – won Best NZ Sports or Event Coverage at the awards and also Best Documentary for the TV Guide Best on the Box People’s Choice Awards.

“ANZAC Day is a special day for New Zealanders and we’re pleased to mark this day with our support for Māori Television’s award-winning broadcast,” says Mr Besant. “It’s a day for our communities to take time to remember friends and family members.”

Judy Bailey will be joined by Julian Wilcox this year to co-host the all-day coverage on Wednesday April 25, which begins at 5.30 AM, while Wena Harawira will report from the Gallipoli peninsula on the experiences and emotions of the many New Zealanders that attend the ANZAC services.

As well as veteran interviews, dawn services, debates and discussions, this year’s broadcast – NĀ RĀTOU, MŌ TĀTOU: LET’S HONOUR THEM TOGETHER – includes an inaugural ANZAC address by a prominent New Zealander, a critically acclaimed documentary, GALLIPOLI, by Turkish filmmaker Tolga Ornek, and a special concert showcasing songs from the Vietnam War era.

Māori Television chief executive Jim Mather commends ANZ for demonstrating an ANZAC spirit and supporting what will be another very special broadcast.

“It’s important that any sponsor reflects the status and quality of what is ground-breaking programming and ANZ is an ideal partner for this initiative,” Mr Mather says.

“With strong business foundations in both Australia and New Zealand, it is very appropriate that ANZ is the corporate sponsor of our special ANZAC coverage. We are very proud to have a sponsorship partner that is committed to honouring and commemorating the ANZAC spirit.”

The RSA Poppy Day Appeal begins on Friday April 20. New Zealanders can get their commemorative poppies from RSA members and volunteers, and from any ANZ branch.

Viewers can call the helpline on 0800 MA TATOU (0800 628 2868) for advice on how to tune in to Māori Television.