New Zealanders’ Wartime Role Recognised

12 July 2006

New Zealanders’ Wartime Role Recognised in Live TV Event

New Zealand’s role in the two World Wars and other armed conflicts is to be formally recognised with the unveiling of a memorial at London’s prominent Hyde Park Corner.

The unveiling – to be held on Armistice Day, 11 November – will be screened live by TVNZ. NZ On Air pledged support for coverage of the event at its June funding round meeting.

“This is a very historic event for New Zealand,” said Bernard Duncan, Acting Chief Executive of NZ On Air.

He said the memorial symbolised the close ties between New Zealand and the United Kingdom and the shared sacrifice during armed conflicts, especially the First and Second World Wars.

“TVNZ’s host broadcasting role will enable a large international and domestic audience to witness the occasion, and NZ On Air is pleased to support the coverage of this important event”, said Mr. Duncan

TVNZ’s live broadcast will capture the unveiling of the memorial on November 11th, Armistice Day. The coverage will then be repeated at 10am the following day.

TVNZ chief executive Rick Ellis said it’s highly appropriate for New Zealand’s television public broadcaster to cover the unveiling of a special place for young New Zealanders overseas, who are increasingly searching for ways to express their national identity on occasions such as ANZAC Day.

The unveiling will be performed in the presence of a New Zealand contingent of veterans being flown to London for the event by the Ministry for Culture and Heritage, as well as representatives of both governments, Members of Parliament, diplomatic corps, those with an interest in New Zealand and several thousand New Zealanders.

ENDS

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