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Cenotaph Stories

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Cenotaph Stories

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  • Life after Armistice: William Osborne Liggins

    Sophie Elborough
    COLLECTION TECHNICIAN - RESEARCH SUPPORT

    While Armistice Day was not an official end to World War I, it did mark a vital turning point in the conflict. For the approximately 52,000 New Zealand service personnel overseas, including William Osborne Liggins, the news meant leaving behind muddy trenches and starting a long journey back home.

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  • ‘Kia kaha nu Tereni’: 125th anniversary of New Zealand in the South African War

    Gail Romano, Curator, War History

    On 21 October 1899, New Zealand's first overseas military contingent departed for the South African War, marking a significant moment in the nation's military history. The 125th anniversary commemorates this milestone, reflecting on the troops' experiences and New Zealand's evolving identity within the British Empire.

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  • Online Cenotaph: Connecting communities through collective memory

    Victoria Passau, Online Cenotaph & Enquiry Service Manager

    This article summarises how Online Cenotaph fosters social cohesion by engaging communities in shaping New Zealand’s military history through digital interaction. Drawing from research by Liew and Passau (2024), it highlights how user contributions transform military history into a living heritage, connecting people and strengthening communal ties.

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  • New Zealand's post-WWII conflicts in South East Asia

    Matthew Nickless
    Collection Technician - Research Support

    In the period between World War II and the Vietnam War, New Zealand was involved in a number of engagements in South East Asia that are often forgotten. This blog is a short explainer of those conflicts.

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  • From Service to Sports: The journeys of New Zealand's Veteran Olympians

    Madeleine Williamson
    Collection Access Librarian

    From military service to the world stage, New Zealand's veteran Olympians exemplify resilience and dedication. Fifteen New Zealand military veterans have had the privilege of representing New Zealand at the Olympics. Let’s celebrate their stories as we reignite the Olympic flame.

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  • A Family Affair: Intergenerational Service in the Merchant Navy during WWII 

    Sophie Elborough
    COLLECTION TECHNICIAN - RESEARCH SUPPORT

    These are the stories of two families whose lives were inseparable from the Merchant Navy. As these siblings, children, and parents served alongside each other during World War II they demonstrated incredible perseverance and their experiences highlight a surprising sense of continuity despite global conflict.

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  • New Zealand Nurses in Samoa

    Sophie Elborough
    COLLECTION TECHNICIAN - RESEARCH SUPPORT

    When the Expeditionary Force Advance Party set sail from Wellington to Samoa on 12 August 1914, they became some of the first New Zealand troops to see active service. Among them were six, soon to be seven, New Zealand nurses whose unusual service fundamentally shaped New Zealand's contribution to the war effort.

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  • Return from War: The Impact of the 1918 Influenza Pandemic on First World War Veterans

    Matthew Nickless
    Collection Technician - Research Support

    As New Zealand's servicepeople returned home from the First World War they were faced with the rise of an influenza pandemic. It killed thousands of New Zealanders, and many soldiers. These are the stories of two of those men.

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  • David Daniel and the 14 Squadron

    Victoria Passau, Online Cenotaph & Enquiry Service Manager

    David Daniel's journey from joining the Air Training Corps in New Zealand to his service in Japan's post-war efforts reflects a noteworthy yet relatable experience. Initially drawn to flying, his path led to essential ground roles during WWII and Japan's rebuilding, illustrating the valuable contributions of service personnel during this pivotal period.

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  • Tough Love: Kayforce Engagement with the Korean People

    COLONEL (RETIRED) RICHARD HALL OBE, MNZM
    Pou Maumahara Volunteer

    In the Korean War, New Zealand's Kayforce built meaningful connections with Koreans, transcending initial barriers of mistrust and language. Their involvement in humanitarian efforts and the formation of bonds highlighted a remarkable story of camaraderie and compassion, showcasing the positive impacts of their presence amidst the complexities of war.

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