April 26, 2023
Anzac Day time for reflection
Governor General Dame Helen Winkelmann says Anzac Day has provided an opportunity to reflect on the many ways in which conflict has shaped our country’s history.
Speaking at the Pukeahu national war memorial in Wellington, she said in recent years the commemorations have become not just about foreign wars but include recognition of the New Zealand Wars between British and colonial forces and iwi Māori.
She said this year includes a number of significant anniversaries.
It’s 60 years to the day since a New Zealand civilian surgical team arrived to assist casualties in the Vietnam War.
The 70th anniversary of the signing of the Armistice in the Korean War will be marked on July 27, and it’s the 80th anniversary of the end of the North Africa campaign – the longest and most important land campaign fought by New Zealanders in the Second World War.
Three New Zealanders were awarded the Victoria Cross for their actions in North Africa: Charles Upham, Keith Elliott, and Te Moananui-a-Kiwa Ngarimu – the first Māori soldier to be awarded the Victoria Cross while serving with New Zealand forces.