The story of Māori service in overseas wars is one of courage, complexity, and a long-standing commitment to collective responsibility – a legacy that continues to shape Aotearoa’s identity today.
According to Te Ara – the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, Māori participation in overseas conflicts began as early as the South African War, but it was during the First World War that large numbers of Māori enlisted and served as a unified force.
More than 2,000 Māori served in World War I, including in the Māori Contingent and later the Pioneer Battalion. Their roles were often physically demanding and dangerous, including trench building and frontline labour on the Western Front, where many were killed or wounded.
Despite initial hesitation among some iwi – shaped by the legacy of land loss and conflict with the Crown – many Māori leaders encouraged enlistment, seeing participation as a way to assert citizenship and strengthen relationships with the state.
That contribution expanded significantly during World War II, with the formation of the 28th Māori Battalion. More than 3,600 Māori served in the unit, which became one of the most highly regarded in New Zealand’s military history.
The battalion earned a reputation for bravery and effectiveness in campaigns across Greece, North Africa, and Italy, while also sustaining heavy casualties. Its service became a defining chapter in Māori military history, strengthening a sense of pride and unity among iwi.
Māori continued to serve in conflicts after 1945, including Korea, Vietnam, and peacekeeping missions, reflecting an ongoing commitment to military service and international responsibility.
However, the legacy of Māori involvement in overseas wars is not without tension. Service abroad sits alongside the history of conflict at home, including the New Zealand Wars of the 19th century, which were driven by disputes over land, sovereignty, and the impacts of colonisation.
Those wars led to widespread land confiscations and long-term social and economic impacts for Māori communities, shaping the context in which later generations chose to serve overseas.
Today, Māori military service is recognised as a vital part of the ANZAC story. It reflects not only sacrifice on distant battlefields, but also a broader narrative of identity, resilience, and the pursuit of mana and recognition.
As Anzac Day approaches, the legacy of Māori in overseas wars stands as a reminder of both the cost of service and the enduring strength of those who answered the call.
