Rotary Peace Poles


Rotary Peace Poles Project

Rotary International  and its members have a long history of promoting peace and working to address the underlying causes of conflict in communities around the world. There are 7 Rotary Peace Centres in Universities around the world where over 2000 + Rotary Peace Scholars have undertaken Post Graduate studies and are now employed in the UN, Government Departments, NGO organisations and working in communities in resolving conflict.

 

Rotary Oceania ( ROZops Ltd) is encouraging clubs to reach a goal of 100 Peace Poles throughout New Zealand and the Pacific Islands to promote Rotary’s commitment to World Peace. It is also a cost-effective way for our Rotary Brand to be more visible in public places.

 

Where can you erect them ?

In Parks, Gardens, Schools, Conference Centres, Youth Centres, Shopping Malls, Churches, Sports Stadiums, and at any Rotary project that has a public profile. In some cases you may need to consult with your local Councils, Community Boards and others for permission.

 

What do they Cost ?

The vinyl plaques cost AU $ 28.00 + GST each plus postage. ( As at 2025 )

Every pole requires 5 plaques, 1 for each side and 1 with the club logo & name, pole number and a peace dove. See the images attached.  

 

You will need to purchase a piece of timber which is approximately 4 x 2 and 2.4m long, paint it before attaching the vinyl plaques. A metal frame can be attached to the bottom and cemented into the hole or it can be cemented directly into the hole. Make sure it is secured well to deter any vandalism.

 

Who are the contacts?

South Island    Email:  lizcourtney.lc@gmail.com ( Liz Courtney)

and

North Island      Email:     bjanine@xtra.co.nz   ( Janine Branson)

 

We are the NZ contacts and will give you a number for your pole so we can track them all across the country. We will send you a list of the languages and you select 4. One must be “May Peace prevail on Earth”.  There is also one plaque with your club name and a statement about Peace.

 

This is what we will require;

1.      Your club name so we can make sure the right club logo is on the pole.

2.      Address and contact person for the delivery of the plaques.

3.      The languages you have selected.

4.      Where the pole is to be installed.

We will send the information onto Heidi to manufacture the plaques.

Heidi Unferdorben in Australia has a professional set up including all the templates with many languages to select.  She will send you proof before you commit to your order.

 

How can I pay for the plaques?

Rotary Oceania ( ROZops) will send an invoice to pay into this account;  06 0193 0905286 20

ROZOPS Limited

Can I have the plaques made in NZ?

Yes. A signwriter can make these for you but you will need to let us know you want the template for a signwriter. The Peace Pole plaques are a trademarked item and we are wanting the signs to be consistent with the organisation and so we can follow them.

 

BACKGROUND

Peace poles  are monuments that carry a powerful message. Let me share some interesting details about them:

  1. What is a Peace Pole?

  • Multilingual Messages:

    • The central message, “May Peace Prevail on Earth,” is displayed in the language of the country where the pole is placed.
    • Additionally, peace poles usually feature translations in 3 to 13 other languages.
    • These messages often serve as a reminder of our shared desire for peace.
  • Global Spread:

    • Since the first peace poles were constructed outside Japan in 1983, over 200,000 have been placed around the world in nearly 200 countries.
    • They can be found in various locations, including the north magnetic pole, the Hiroshima Peace Memorial, the Egyptian pyramids in Giza, and the Aiki Shrine in Iwama, Japan.
    • Notably, peace poles are commonly installed at high-profile public gathering places, such as community parks, church entrances, and school campuses.
  • Materials and Design:

    • Peace poles are made from diverse materials, including wood, limestone, copper, plastic, and stainless steel.
    • The text may be painted, carved, etched, welded, or attached as a plaque.
    • Some peace poles are carefully crafted by artists or sculptors.
    • To avoid religious connotations, the word “prayer” is sometimes omitted, ensuring compliance with zoning restrictions.
  • Inspiration and Purpose:

    • The inspiration for planting a peace pole often arises in response to local historic hate crimes, incidents, or issues.
    • It is a reminder that people want a world free of conflict and war.

  • Virtual Global Peace Pole Map:

    • Remember, these peace poles serve as a beautiful testament to our shared aspiration for a more peaceful world.  🌍✌️ 3   🕊️