The Victoria Cross Garden is situated at the corner of High, Dixon and Vogel Streets in Hawera.
The garden - in the shape of a Victoria Cross - was opened by South Taranaki District's Mayor, Ross Dunlop on 15 September 2018. The garden includes statues of Hāwera's two 1914-18 Victoria Cross winners - John Gildroy Grant (10/2750) and Harry John Laurent (24/213). The garden is located near the streets named for them. The two VC winners are also commemorated by oak trees around the water tower.
In 2007 the two Victoria Crosses presented to these men were stolen, alongside many others, during a raid of the Waiouru Army Museum. The following year they were recovered and returned to the museum. Two men were later charged and convicted for the theft.
Documents
Residents lament thefts, Taranaki Daily News 4 December 2007
Victoria Cross was due back in weeks, Taranaki Daily News 4 December 2007
Victoria Cross Garden, NZ Genealogist 15 September 2018
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