Remembering WW1 – 100 Years On

At 3pm on 5^th August 1914, the New Zealand Governor, Lord Liverpool read a telegram from His Majesty King George V to a crowd gathered at our Parliament in Wellington. The telegram expressed The King’s appreciation for the solidarity of his overseas dominions after Britain declared war with Germany. Lord Liverpool responded with New Zealand own commitment to make any sacrifice necessary. With that commitment, New Zealand officially entered the First World War, forever changing our society.

The First World War (1914–1918) was one of the most significant events of the 20th Century and had a huge impact on New Zealand society. Ten percent of our then population of one million served overseas, of which more than 18,000 died and over 40,000 were wounded. Nearly every New Zealand family was affected.

This year, we mark the 100^th anniversary of this significant date. If you would like more information please visit the RSA site (www.rsa.org) or New Zealand WW100 (https://ww100.govt.nz/)