Voices of World War II: New Zealanders Share Their Stories

‘We are only a small and young nation, but we are one and all a band of brothers and we march forward with a union of hearts and wills to a common destiny.’ - Michael Joseph Savage, Prime Minister of New Zealand, upon the outbreak of WWII in 1939

Voices of World War II shows the human side of war through dozens of first-hand memories, stories, and reflections on life during wartime in New Zealand and overseas. A visually captivating compendium of photographs and written accounts, it provides a snapshot of what life was like during WWII, from the point of view of those who lived through it.

Descriptions are given by a solider lying in his tent, hearing bombs land close by; young school children explain what it was like to have bomb shelter practices at school; a Land Girl meets the farmer she would work with for the first time. Stories are shared about leaving New Zealand and heading into the unknown, as well as WWI-veteran fathers refusing to send their sons to war. Women share what life was like as a WAAF, Wren or nurse overseas.

In this collection of memories sent in by families across New Zealand, you will find a rare insight into wartime life across generations and vocations. Fascinating and genuine, it is both a tribute to the resilience and bravery of those who served in WWII, and a historical account which will teach younger generations about the lives of their ancestors.