Former Paraparaumu RSA building becomes national Poppy Place

The former Paraparaumu RSA building on Amohia Street is to be designated a national Poppy Place in recognition of its place in the community and support of service personnel, their dependants, and RSA members for 94 years.

Mayor K Gurunathan says the acknowledgement is deserved.

“The recognition also tips a hat to the iconic Memorial Gates that stand adjacent to the building. Volunteers built the gates in the early 1920s, just after World War One. The Gates were then upgraded and floodlit in February 2015 by Council when they were re-dedicated to the community.”

RSA president Philip Simpson says the Paraparaumu RSA is delighted with the designation.

“The New Zealand Poppy Places Trust’s decision to create a lasting historical legacy for future generations in our community is warmly welcomed by the RSA and the people we serve. We are so deeply pleased by this event.”

The New Zealand Poppy Places Trust is an official WW1 commemorative project and has identified an estimated 3000 sites around the country which qualify for recognition.

A Poppy Place sign on the side of the former RSA building (now the Magic Sparks child centre) will be unveiled at a dedication ceremony on Tuesday 13 November by Mayor Gurunathan.

All RSA and family members are encouraged to attend.