15 VETERANS’ AFFAIRS ISSUE 44 DECEMBER 2023
Kiwibank’s Local Hero Medallist – Te Pou Toko o te Tau Willie Apiata VC
Photo: Corporal Willie Apiata VC (right) and Royal New Zealand Navy Warrant Officer Lance Graham at the memorabilia auction fundraising for Tairāwhiti after Cyclone Gabrielle in February.
Under the leadership of Willie Apiata VC, a group of former New Zealand Defence Force personnel raised over $200,000 for a Tai Rāwhiti iwi impacted by Cyclone Gabrielle. The silent auction included Willie Apiata’s Victoria Cross medallion, a copy of Queen Elizabeth’s II funeral programme signed by Victoria Cross recipients, and a special air service book and brooch. Apiata expressed his desire to give back to the community that raised him, and emphasised the ongoing need to support the East Coast and its people as they work towards sustainable recovery. For more information about the awards check out this website nzawards.org.nz/local-heroes
NGAPONA
HMNZS Ngapona Association If you are a former member of HMNZS Ngapona or of the RNZNVR the HMNZS Ngapona Association would love to hear from you. They aim to promote comradeship amongst serving and former members of the RNZNVR. You can read more about the Association on their website ngapona.org.nz or email their secretary at Secretary@ngapona.org.nz
