More than 250 people turned out at Amberley Domain to mark Anzac Day 2022.
Hurunui Mayor Marie Black spoke at the Amberley service and at several smaller services across the district.
Black said attention turned to the courageous actions of service personnel, and the sacrifices they have made across "our history".
"We take time on Anzac Day to remember the generations of servicemen and women who without guarantee of a safe return, left their homes and families for shores unknown.
"While we reflect on their experiences, we can also give cause to consider the division that exists in our world today.
"The event in Ukraine is shocking and distressing, demonstrating the enduring act of war and conflict. For every individual touched, their lives are touched forever.
"Let us never forget the example of our servicemen and women and consider it our duty to uphold the legacy by continuing to stand against division and hatred, and to strive for a peaceful future for all. We see that the human toll of conflict is not confined to the past, nor a single generation," said Mrs Black.