New Zealand At The Begining of WWII

Although New Zealand lied at the other end of the world, so far away that her people had no need of black-outs, gas masks, or air-raid shelters, she played her full part in WWII. New Zealand pilots had distinguished themselves in the air fights over the North Sea, and the "Achilles," in the glorious battle of the Plate, which was manned very largely by New Zealanders. Moreover, the Dominion raised a large force for service overseas, commmanded by Major-General B. C. Freyberg, V.C., who played such a gallant part in the Great War, both on Gallipoli and in France.

Recruits for the New Zealand Expeditionary Force undergoing intensive training in their own country.





A constant coastal reconnaissance patrol is kept up to watch for raiding enemy warships. Above left, New Zealand airmen making a flight on this service.



New Zealanders resident In Great Britain who training to be ready to join the main contingent when it arrives from their homeland. A gas mask inspection is in progress.

​

 

New Zealand's Military History during WW2

New Zealand entered the Second World War by declaring war on Nazi Germany with Britain. The state of war with Germany was officially held to have existed since 9.30pm on 3 September 1939, simultaneous with that of Britain, but in fact the declaration of war was not made until confirmation had been received from Britain that their ultimatum to Germany had expired.