Oamaru's dawn service was all lit up - not only by a crowd that exceeded all expectations, but also by new spotlights installed last week at the World War 1 monument.
Like other services and ceremonies around North Otago, the centenary of New Zealand and Australian forces landing at Gallipoli brought unprecedented turnouts.
The main Anzac parade and service in Oamaru ended with about 2000 crowded in and around the Garden of Memories World War 2 memorial.
With the North Otago RSA going in to liquidation because of financial issues, RSA representative John Longman, Waitaki Mayor Gary Kircher and his personal assistant Mandy McIntosh took on the task of organising and co-ordinating the commemorations.
''Absolutely incredible. Mind-blowing,'' was how Mr Longman described the number of people who attended the services.
''To the people of Oamaru and North Otago - one mighty thank you from the veterans,'' he said.
Mr Longman had expected increased numbers this year to commemorate 100 years since the Gallipoli campaign - but not to the extent realised.
Mr Longman said the organising group had ''got there in the end''.
''We put them on, and we will put them on every year in the future.''
Mr Kircher said the impressive turnouts had made him feel humble.
''I was amazed, actually.''
