ANZAC Reflections: Honouring Service with Scarlet Oaks

As ANZAC Day approaches, we pause to recognise the courage, sacrifice and quiet strength of those who served. Across Aotearoa, communities gather at dawn, walk familiar roads and stand before memorials that hold the names and stories of loved ones who never returned home. Among these places of remembrance are living memorials, where trees stand as symbols of respect, resilience and gratitude.

Quercus coccinea 135lt April 2021 (1)
Quercus coccinea – Scarlet Oak

This year we’re reflecting on the Scarlet Oak, Quercus coccinea, a tree known for its brilliant scarlet Autumn colour and strong, upright form. It’s a species chosen by many communities for memorial avenues because of its presence, longevity and the way its colour deepens through the Season, echoing the weight and honour of remembrance.

Mossburn RSA: A Living Tribute

1. Mossburn RSA tree - August 2022 - (Jill McBride)
1. Mossburn RSA tree - August 2022 (Jill McBride)
Quercus coccinea – Scarlet Oak 12L – Devon Street, Mossburn

In 2014 the Mossburn RSA planted twenty‑three Scarlet Oaks along Devon Street, each tree commemorating a local serviceman who lost his life on foreign soil during the First and Second World Wars. In 2022 one of these memorial trees needed replacing and we were grateful for the opportunity to donate a 12L grade Scarlet Oak to ensure the avenue remained complete.

The Mossburn RSA shared their thanks, noting that the replacement tree is thriving and standing strong against the Mossburn winds. Their message spoke to the heart of ANZAC remembrance: community, care and the ongoing responsibility to honour those who served. With the RSA relying on member support to continue its welfare work for returned servicemen and women, we were humbled to play a small part in helping preserve this meaningful memorial.

rsa.org.nz

The Oaks Story: A Tradition of Honour

The Oaks - Recording

Scarlet Oaks also line the road north of the Taueru River in the Wairarapa, where thirty‑six trees were planted after World War Two to commemorate the thirty‑four local soldiers who never came home. The two additional trees are known as the guardian trees, standing watch over the avenue and the memories it holds.

Each ANZAC Day, locals walk through the oaks at dawn, speaking the names of each soldier as they cross the bridge to the memorial. It’s a simple, powerful act that connects generations and keeps stories alive.

gladstonenz.com/the-oaks/

A Tree That Carries Meaning

Birchwood - Quercus coccinea - April 2020-2
Quercus coccinea – Birchwood Manor

Whether standing in Mossburn, the Wairarapa or in memorial plantings across the motu, Scarlet Oaks offer more than Autumn colour. They offer a place to pause, reflect and remember. Their strength mirrors the resilience of those who served, and their seasonal change reminds us of the passage of time and the importance of carrying history forward.

As we mark ANZAC Day, we acknowledge the service and sacrifice of all who served, and we remain grateful for the communities who continue to honour them.

Quercus coccinea - Hutton - (3) April 2018
Quercus coccinea – Hutton

If you’d like to learn more about Quercus coccinea or discuss memorial plantings, we’re always here to help.
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