The 19th Infantry Battalion memorial park and picnic area is situated behind the Information Centre in Victoria Park, Cashmere.
There is a rest area beside the road and above it there is a memorial rock, two thirds of which is buried, with a plaque on it. Above that there is a plain table with a plaque recording an explanation of the area where the Battalion saw action and a list of the fallen.
The whole area is bounded with four blocks of 19 trees from each area where the battalion fought – Greece, Crete, North Africa and Italy – and also four blocks of native trees signifying those who did return but have since died.
There is also a memorial tree that was planted by the original crew of the HMNZS Kiwi in April 1985 and a plaque to those who paid the supreme sacrifice.
In spring the area is a sea of daffodils that have been planted over the years by the families of the soldiers and every Anzac day there is a service there.
For a detailed explanation of the significance of the area refer to http://www.nzine/features/vic_park_memorial.html
The site has been maintained by returned soldiers from the 19th and the Christchurch City Council. With the passing of time the ranks of the original returned servicemen have been decimated and in 2013 their functions were handed over to the Guardians of the 19th, an organisation that is comprised of members of the families of the 19th servicemen, other service people and other interested people.
The ANZAC service commences at 8:30 am
The correct full name for the regiment is '19th Battalion and Armoured Regiment'
Community contributions