Concerns are being raised about the number of former service personnel not registered with Veterans’ Affairs, potentially missing out on vital support for themselves and their whānau.
Veterans’ Affairs New Zealand, led by Head of Veterans’ Affairs Alexander Brunt, is highlighting the issue as part of ongoing efforts to better connect with those who have served. While thousands of veterans are currently on the register, there is an acknowledgement that many more remain outside the system.
Officials say when veterans are not registered, it can mean they are missing access to a range of entitlements – including healthcare support, rehabilitation services, financial assistance, and wellbeing programmes designed to support both veterans and their families.
Barriers to registration are varied. Some veterans may not identify with the term or feel their service qualifies them for support, while others face administrative hurdles or simply lack awareness about what is available. Cultural factors are also seen as significant, particularly for Māori veterans who may be disconnected from formal systems or prefer to engage through trusted community networks.
There are also concerns that older veterans, or those who have transitioned out of service many years ago, may not realise they are eligible for assistance, leaving them and their whānau without support that could make a significant difference to their quality of life.
Veterans’ Affairs is now stepping up efforts to reach those who are not yet connected, with a focus on proactive engagement and building stronger relationships with communities. This includes working more closely with iwi, hapū and Māori organisations to ensure services are accessible and culturally appropriate.
Improving awareness and simplifying the registration process are also key priorities, as the agency looks to remove barriers and ensure no veteran is left behind.
The issue highlights a broader challenge – ensuring that those who have served Aotearoa are recognised, supported, and able to access the help they are entitled to.
#Veterans #NZDefence #Aotearoa #Whānau #Māori #SupportServices #Community #Wellbeing #PublicService
