Kiwi vets get funding for trip to Korean War service

Soldiers on a wharf alongside Wahine ferry, on their embark to Korea. Photo / File

Up to 30 New Zealand veterans who served in the Korean War will be funded to attend the 60th anniversary commemorations of the Korean War Armistice next year.

Veterans Affairs Minister Nathan Guy announced all expenses would be covered, including medical care.

He said a ballot may be needed to allocated the places, depending on the level of interest.

Priority would be given to those who hadn't already received Government support to attend previous services in Korea.

Mr Guy said it was the same policy used for the 60th commemorations of the Second World War.

"It would be a chance for veterans to pay tribute to fellow servicemen and women who served New Zealand in this conflict. It is an important way of honouring those who made the ultimate sacrifice," said Mr Guy.

A New Zealand-based service would also be held for those unable to attend the commemorations in Korea.

New Zealand was one of the first nations to provide support for the Korean War from 1950-1953, with up to 4700 personnel serving in Kayforce, and a further 1300 naval personnel also involved.

Forty-five personnel lost their lives in the seven years New Zealand was involved in the conflict and its aftermath.