A vibrant display of bright red knitted poppies will soon grace the entrance of Tauranga RSA, adding a poignant touch to the upcoming Anzac Day commemorations.

Created by Tauranga’s Ninja Knits group, the poppies will flow along on either side of the pathway at the organisation’s front doors, just steps away from the Tauranga RSA Cenotaph, where a dawn service and parade will take place on April 25.

The Ninja Knits group, known for their community-driven knitting projects, previously adorned a tree in Tauranga South with knitted poppies last year.

This year their focus has shifted to enhancing the entrance of the returned services organisation which has a long history, founded in 1918.

“We initially planned to display the poppies on Cameron Rd, but the RSA has requested they be placed along the walkway leading into their building,” said Wendy Pedersen, co-ordinator of Ninja Knits.

“It’s an honour to contribute to such a meaningful site for Anzac Day.”

Ninja Knitters Jayne Popham, Pauline Happé, Nola Ott and Tina Yung at the entrance to the Tauranga RSA Ninja Knitters Jayne Popham, Pauline Happé, Nola Ott and Tina Yung at the entrance to the Tauranga RSA.  Photo/Chrissy Morgan.

The knitted poppies, crafted by the group’s talented members, will be mounted on the ends of knitting needles and ‘planted’ in the RSA’s entrance garden, creating a stunning carpet of red.

“We’ve also made wreaths. At the RSA’s request we will be placing them alongside the walkway and also some to be seen from the road,” Pedersen said.

The poppy installation serves as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by those who served and died in wars, encapsulating the sentiment of ‘Lest We Forget’.

It also underscores the mission of Tauranga RSA, which provides support, advocacy and camaraderie to current and former members of the New Zealand Defence Force, their families and descendants.

“What a fantastic idea and tribute to the veterans departed and surviving,” said Tauranga RSA President Morton Anderson. “I commend the group for their endeavour.”

 Knitte poppies and wreaths made by Ninja Knits members on display at Tauranga RSA in Greerton. Photo/Chrissy Morgan.

The RSA building, located in Greerton, sits next to the Tauranga RSA Cenotaph, where the Anzac Day service and parade will begin at 5.45am.

After the commemoration, attendees will be invited to walk through the striking display of red poppies and enjoy a cooked breakfast in the RSA’s restaurant.