NZ Veterans Minister to attend ANZAC Day service

In a media release on Tuesday, New Zealand’s Veterans Minister and Associate Defence Minister- Hon. Chris Penk will be attending the ANZAC Day service in Niue on Friday.

In the statement released on their official New Zealand Government website, Penk said New Zealand shared a deep and enduring partnership with Niue in defence and security, forged through joint service and sacrifice in times of war.

He added it’s a privilege to be invited to attend the official ANZAC Day commemorations in Alofi, remembering the brave service personnel no longer with us and to acknowledging Niue’s continued efforts in supporting peace and stability for our people.

During the First World War, around 150 Niuean men volunteered for the New Zealand Expeditionary Force (NZEF), serving in the New Zealand Pioneer Battalion. 

Penk said at least 15 Niuean soldiers have died in service. Their sacrifice is etched into our shared history and will always be remembered by New Zealand.

He looks forward to attending the village dawn service to experience the community spirit that is integral to the Niuean way of life.

He will be accompanied by the NZDF Joint Forces Commander, Major General Rob Krushka. The delegation is expected to arrive on the island this afternoon.