Armistice Day is November 11. Arras is in France.

This Post-Armistice Day Talk is an opportunity to learn more about a shared history, to honour the New Zealand soldiers who fought during the First World War and to preserve the enduring connection between the people of New Zealand and France.

A 20 km network of tunnels were dug by the tunnellers under the French town of Arras during World War 1. These tunnels created a tactical advantage for Allied troops, who were able to get close to enemy trenches unseen. The site, La Carrière Wellington, is a World War I memorial in Arras.

The guest speaker is the NZ Tunnellers historian Sue Baker Wilson. In April this year, France paid tribute to Sue’s work and dedication to the preservation and protection of this shared history and bestowed on her their award of Chevalier des Arts et des Lettres (Knight of the Order of Arts and Letters). Sue is a passionate believer in the duty of memory and a strong advocate for the enduring friendships that help forge a better future for all.

She has rigorously researched this chapter in the history of New Zealand's relations with France. She has re-found the forgotten and reconnected the de-connected. She is ensuring that the links and friendships forged do not become mere footnotes buried in the past. Come along and hear her journey, her story.

The talk is in English and there will be extracts from soldiers' letters home.

All are welcome to attend but please register for catering purposes

For any other queries, please contact shelley@lovefrench.nz or phone 07 578 9416 .

Merci beaucoup.