From the Head of Veterans' Affairs—Summer 2018

Tēnā koutou katoa

All of us at Veterans’ Affairs were devastated by the unprecedented Christchurch terror attack that occurred on Friday 15 March. We have all felt raw emotions of grief and love for the victims and our fellow New Zealanders.

If you need to talk to someone, I encourage you to call or text 1737 to speak with a trained counsellor. This service is free of charge, and available day and night to callers within New Zealand.

This edition of VA News focuses on working better, together—with respect and kindness for all.

A good example of working together is the recently formed Combined Veteran Advocacy Group (CVAG), which aims to ensure ongoing communication and collaborations between all the member groups, to continually support our veteran community. Members of CVAG are the New Zealand Defence Force and Veterans’ Affairs, the Royal New Zealand Returned and Services’ Association, the No Duff Charitable Trust and the Australasian Services Care Network.

I know many of you will shortly be preparing to attend Anzac Day services here in New Zealand, and around the world. It’s a time for us to remember and acknowledge all those who have served and continue to serve today – and the sacrifices made by so many in the shaping of our lives and of our history.

Ka maumahara tonu tātou ki a rātou.
We will remember them.

Representatives at the signing of the Combined Veteran Advocacy Group charter. From left to right: Jack Steer ONZM, Royal New Zealand Returned and Services' Association; Steve Shamy, Australasian Services Care Network; Aaron Wood, No Duff Charitable Trust; Bernadine Mackenzie, Veterans' Affairs; and Bernie Grant, representing the Chief of Defence Force.