Twenty-five southern rata have been planted at Bluff's Memorial Grove, ahead of this years ANZAC Day on 25th April, to commemorate 25 World War II servicemen who never returned.

The native trees were a donation from the Invercargill City Council (ICC) nursery to the Bluff Returned Servicemen Association (RSA).

Memorial Grove, at the base of Motupohue Bluff Hill, was established in 1946 as a commemoration to the areas fallen World War II servicemen.

ICC Parks and Recreation Manager Caroline Rain said the area was a beautiful spot.

“It has a lovely energy about it and is an ideal place for these trees to be planted.”

Bluff RSA District Support Advisor Peter (Robbo) Robertson said that winds and fire over 80 years had led to several of the original trees planted for the servicemen in the aftermath of World War II to fall over.

“This is perfect timing,” Robertson said

Robertson said the planting had been in the works for about five months.

“The southern rata is red – like the red poppy – and we know that the southern rata grows well here in the coastal environment.”

Southern Rata Photo: Jo Hiscock/DOC

Bluff Community Board Chair Ray Fife said the planting of the rata trees was an important tribute to the 25 men who lost their lives in World War II.

“This is a beautiful way to honour the Bluff men who sacrificed their lives for the service of their country,” Fife said.

“It also ensures this community stands by our promise: We will remember them.”

Bluff's ANZAC Day services will be at 7am at Memorial Grove, and 11am at the waterfront memorial.