Source: Ministry for Culture and Heritage
Members of the public are welcome to attend the national Merchant Navy Day commemoration at Pukeahu National War Memorial Park in Wellington on Thursday 3 September.
“Merchant Navy Day is a time to recognise New Zealand’s civilian seafarers and the part they played in supporting our country through war and conflict,” says Secretary for Culture and Heritage Leauanae Laulu Mac Leauanae.
“Merchant ships were the lifeline between New Zealand and the rest of the world. Their crews transported people, equipment and supplies across oceans during some of the most dangerous periods of the twentieth century.”
This year’s ceremony will highlight the contribution of women who worked aboard merchant vessels.
“Women made a valuable contribution to New Zealand’s maritime workforce during the world wars. Working as stewardesses and in other shipboard roles, they helped keep vessels operating and passengers cared for, often in challenging circumstances.
“By bringing these stories into the spotlight, we gain a fuller picture of the people who contributed to New Zealand’s wartime and maritime history.”
The commemoration will also acknowledge the 75th anniversary of the loss of the troopship Wahine in 1951.
“The Wahine was carrying New Zealand personnel destined for service in Korea when it was wrecked in the Arafura Sea, north of Australia. Although there was no loss of life, the incident underlines the risks associated with moving people and supplies across vast distances.
“The story of the Wahine is a reminder that military operations relied not only on those in uniform, but also on civilian ships and crews working behind the scenes.”
Merchant Navy Day also provides an opportunity to recognise the families who supported merchant seafarers throughout their service.
“Many merchant seafarers returned home with little public recognition. This commemoration helps ensure that their contribution, and the support of their families, remains part of our shared national story.
“I encourage everyone to join us at Pukeahu as we reflect on the sacrifices made at sea and honour those whose service helped keep New Zealand connected to the world.”
People attending this year’s commemoration are asked to arrive at the Hall of Memories at Pukeahu National War Memorial Park by 10.45am for an 11.00am start.
Further information
- Merchant Navy Day is marked annually on 3 September, the anniversary of the 1939 sinking of the British passenger liner Athenia, the first Allied merchant ship lost in the Second World War.
- Merchant ships carried troops, food, fuel, raw materials, and military supplies across dangerous sea routes during wartime.
- New Zealand relied heavily on sea transport to move exports, imports and personnel between Britain, the Pacific, Australia, and other destinations.
- Merchant seafarers included deck and engineer officers, seamen and engine room hands, radio operators, stewards, cooks, and other shipboard workers, including some women.
- More information on New Zealanders in the Merchant Marine and the Merchant Navy is available at:
Caption: Second World War Merchant Navy propaganda poster (The National Archives, INF3/124/Wikimedia Commons)