Sunshine, light winds and clear blue skies in the capital made for perfect parade weather on the eve of Anzac Day.
The parade, organised by the Wellington City Council, began at Parliament and made its way through the city, ending at Pukeahu National War Memorial Park, which was officially opened last Saturday in time for commemorations.
The commemorative parade was made up of 16 vintage World War I vehicles from Sir Peter Jackson's personal collection.
An original American Field Service ambulance - one of two in existence - was also part of the parade.
Military personnel veterans and their descendants were among those taking part, as well as 100 extras in vintage uniforms, marching bands, military and school pipe bands also took part.
As the parade made its way down Lambton Quay and towards Taranaki Street, thousands of people lined the streets and businesses came to a standstill.
Some peered down from the top of buildings, to ensure they got the best view possible.
Diane Patrick, from Auckland, said this was her first visit to Wellington in 30 years.
"It is such a special occasion, I'm really pleased I was able to come along and pay my respects."
As the parade approached Taranaki Street, thousands of red paper poppies fell from the sky into cheering crowds, and when it eventually reached Pukeahu Park, three vintage planes from World War I flew over-head.
Olive Hawira, from Ohakune, said the parade was "absolutely magnificent".
"Having the opportunity to see the vehicles we used at the time as well as the uniforms. We have come here to pay our respects."
Captain of the Wellington Company, Paul Prouse, took part in today's parade, and could be spotted in the crowd posing for photos.
The Wellington Company 5/7 Battalion territorials unit dated back to the Wellington Regiment which was involved in World War I, he said.
He said today's turn-out was "impressive".
"Everyone has their own personal stories from the events of World War I and World War II, which brings people out."
The parade went according to plan, apart from a slight glitch when a vintage London bus broke down.
Parade organiser Jamie Wilson said the bus needed some work on the tyre, before it carried on as part of the parade.
Sir Peter was on board the bus when it came to a halt, but quickly jumped on board another one of the vintage vehicles.
His spokesman, Matt Dravitski said while he was not at the parade it was a 100 year old vehicle, and some were "prone to break down".
"These are very old vehicles and antique/classic vehicles are not quite as reliable as the vehicles of today. Unfortunately one of them broke down, the parade continued without incident to the best of my knowledge."
The parade is just one part of a busy week of commemorations in the capital, planned by a number of agencies including the Ministry for Culture and Heritage, New Zealand Defence Force and Department of Internal Affairs.
By Nikki Papatsoumas of NZME. News Service
