On September 3, 1939, the Second World War broke out – more than 80 years later, this date is marked as Merchant Navy Memorial Day to commemorate seafarers that served during wartimes.

This year, Tauranga's Merchant Memorial Navy Day is being held on Sunday, September 4, and all are welcome.

'We're trying to remind people the cost to the Merchant Navy, especially during the Second World War, and the large number of ships that were sunk with all their crews lost,” says Captain Ken Camp.

The day will also acknowledge seafarers today who face many difficulties at sea.

'The Merchant Navy today helps to keep you going with petrol for your car and all your clothing comes by ship.”

'People look at a ship and they don't see that there's bodies on it, who are a long way from home.”

The service will be held on Sunday, September 4 meeting at 1.45pm for a 2pm start at The Yacht Club, 90 Keith Allen Drive, Sulphur Point.