New Zealanders Serving In Other Forces During WWI

Based on his latest book, For King and other Countries: New Zealanders at war 1914-1919, Professor Harper will share some of his research findings. This includes the much higher revised number of New Zealanders – more than 10,000 – who enlisted in foreign armies during WWI.

Around 4000 joined the British army, often those from rich, middle-class families and another 4000 joined the Australian Imperial Force because it was easier to enlist, especially for those who did not make the cut for the New Zealand army. Others joined the armies of France, Canada, India and South Africa, and several even enlisted in the German army.

Professor Harper’s talk also touches on New Zealand war heroes in foreign armies, such as Alfred Shout – a New Zealand-born and Australian recipient of the Victoria Cross, and other distinguished soldiers and servicewomen, as well as the occasional conman or rogue.

Entry by $3 donation to Royal NZ Engineers Charitable Trust.