Armistice 1918

An armistice (truce) between Germany and the Allies was signed in France on 11 November 1918 (although the First World War did not officially end until June 1919 when the Treaty of Versailles was signed). The armistice marked the end of fighting on the Western Front in France and Belgium. This occurred on the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month.

Back in New Zealand, the news was announced early on 12 November. Thousands of people took to the streets to celebrate the event. Up and down the country bells rang, sirens and whistles sounded, guns went off, bands played, and patriot songs were sung. Children banged on kerosene tin drums and carried banners emblazoned with ‘Peace’ and ‘Victory’.

Flags of the Allies were waved and lined the streets. Union Jacks were draped across buildings and cars, and worn by revelers as capes. There were parades with decorated cars and bikes, war trophies, and costumed horse riders. Many people wore fancy dress, including ‘Peirrot’ clowns and Britannia.

There were sports, races, games and piping contests. Sweets, biscuits, drinks and souvenirs were given to children.

Throughout the day there were thanksgiving services and speeches. In the evening there were torchlight processions, dancing and concerts, topped off by fireworks and bonfires, and burning of effigies (e.g. the German Kaiser).