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Speech to Royal New Zealand Returned and Services’ Association (RSA) National Council

I must say what a pleasure it is to be at my first RNZRSA Council Meeting, and what a privilege it is to be your Veterans’ Affairs Minister.

This is a portfolio that a number of my colleagues envy me for holding, and it was certainly a special moment when the Prime Minister offered me the portfolio in January.

Veterans, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen, it is my privilege to address you on this significant occasion.

I would like to begin by extending a special welcome to our contingent of veterans of the Pacific War who have returned to the scene of their youthful exploits after the lapse of 70 years.

Thank you for this opportunity to acknowledge the sacrifice made by those New Zealanders who fought in the Battle of Passchendaele 95 years ago.

The Battle of Passchendaele Multi-Media Competition is designed to promote a greater understanding amongst young New Zealanders of the terrible sacrifices made during this battle.

It is an honour to address you all on the inaugural New Zealand Malayan Veterans’ Day. This memorial day is long overdue. Unfortunately, many veterans have passed away before seeing the day when their service and sacrifice is marked and remembered.

Good morning. Today you are setting off on a long journey to London to pay tribute to all those who served in Bomber Command during World War II.

Nearly 6,000 New Zealanders served in Bomber Command during the war and sadly, 1851 did not return home.

I’m sure that when the new memorial is unveiled you will be thinking of those friends and colleagues who did not return home with you.

In total, 55,000 Bomber Command personnel lost their lives.

The bombing raids were dangerous, but played a major role in weakening the German war effort.

Thank you for your invitation to speak here today. I’d like to acknowledge:

E nga mana, e nga reo                                         

E nga mana, e nga reo, e nga karanga maha e huihui nei
 

Tena koutou, tena koutou, tena koutou katoa. 

Ladies and gentlemen and distinguished guests, it is an honour to address an ANZAC Dawn Service on behalf of the Government and the people of New Zealand, and particularly so here on the hallowed ground of the Gallipoli Peninsula. 

Good morning distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen. It’s an honour and privilege to address you today.

I was here two days ago visiting this place of great significance, and have thoroughly enjoyed my time here and getting to know Governor Tuna.

The conflict which took place here nearly a century ago was a defining moment for New Zealand – a small, young nation, half a world away.