Roll of Honour after cleaning, 19 April 2011

The WW1 Roll of Honour on Lion Rock has had a clean to enable the lettering to be legible. The Auckland Council brought in a conservation expert to advise on whether the visibility of the wording could be improved without damaging the plaque. The plaque is exposed to severe conditions being subject to salt, sand, wind and spray.

It was found that the lead lettering had a coating of salt which could be removed and this has been done. Further conservation advice will be taken as to whether anything else can be done to improve the appearance of the nearly 100-year old plaque and to preserve it.

Recently a group met at Piha to discuss the status of the plaque and how to interpret the plaque for local people, visitors to Piha, and specifically for Anzac ceremonies. This consisted of heritage, interp and parks staff from Auckland Council, Cr Sandra Coney, and representatives from the Piha RSA, Titirangi RSA and Piha R&R.

1914 is the centenary of the announcement of WW1. At least 50 men went from the Piha State Sawmill to WW1. About 16 of the men were killed in action or died of wounds or disease. Others suffered physical and mental injuries that affected the rest of their lives. The Anzac parade to the Roll of Honour attracts more and more attendees so it is important to honour the men by providing more information about their lives and sacrifice.