Lest We Forget

They shall not grow old as we that are left grow old 

Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn 

At the going down of the sun, and in the morning, 

we will remember them

(ANZAC - Australia New Zealand Army Corps)

 

What does the World War II historical re-enactment society do?

Military re-enactment is a hobby that is hugely popular all over the world. From the Civil War in the United States to Napoleonic warfare in Europe, many men and women enjoy putting on displays for the public in period costume. Re-Enactment in New Zealand is very young and the main areas of interest are the New Zealand wars of the 19th century and World War II.Our society is dedicated to preserving and presenting New Zealanders contribution to the Second World War.To show a comparison to them, a German unit has been raised. They represent German mountain infantry who fought the New Zealanders in 2 campaigns. Crete and later Italy.  

Preserving history in a unique way

  • By educating club members in unit history, tactics, and training
  • By displaying uniforms and equipment at public displays
  • By demonstrating weapons and tactics in live battles for the public,using blank ammunition
What does the historical re-enactment society offer ?

The H.R.S has monthly training days which include,

  • foot and rifle drills
  • camp skills
  • weapon safety skills
  • tactical training
  • field trips to museums

and comradeship

 Comradeship.jpg (76585 bytes)

A Brief History of the Society

The World War II Historical Re-enactment Society was formed in March 1995, the year of the anniversary of the end of the second World War. The society formed two units, one allied and one German for a T.V.N.Z display battle and went on to provide extras to several local TV programmes like "The Charles Upham Story", "The call up", and "Heroes" as well as several short films. The H.R.S also became a draw card at MOTAT "LIVE" days with display battles involving both tanks and infantry.

Over the years the society has appeared at many different events from commemorations to airshows, from movies to corporate events. The society has travelled the length of the country from Whangarei to Wanaka in the course of entertaining and educating the public about World War II.

Some of the events/displays have been .....
Cambridge Armistice Day 2001 - 2006
Wrights Hill Open Days 1999 - 2007
Warbirds Over Wanaka 2002, 2004, 2006
ANZAC Day Parades 1997 - 2006
Ardmore Airshow 2000 - 2004
Auckland Gunshow Fair 2000 - 2004
Claudelands Military Display 1999 - 2002
Auckland Regt Charter Parade 1999 , 2001
Kumeu Car show 1999 - 2005
Waiouru Army Museum Desert Fair 1999,2006,2007
Whangarei Airshow 1997
Classic Fighters 2003 Airshow 2003,2007
Wings Over Wairarapa 2005,2007
Motat MilitaryDay 2000 - 2007

In addition to our training days & displays. The society has held a number of exercises or tactials, which enable society members to spend time putting their skills to use in feildcraft, weapons use, tactics and living in authentic conditions. As part of the World War II experience, the society also makes regular trips to approved rifle ranges testing both marksmanship and weapons safety.

The World War II hrs has expanded to involve members up and down the country. The society now includes four units and many members are in possession of different uniforms from other nations & services during World War II.

The society has a broad base of knowledge, experience & resources enabling any world war II themed event or production to come alive

Questions Often Asked

Are you glorifying war ?
No. We believe that military history is an important part of our heritage.Re-enactment gives us a little more understanding of our forefather sacrifice.
Are you a political Organisation ?
No. However the society supports the rights of licensed firearms holders.
Are the German soldiers Nazis ?
No, the Nazis were a political organisation, most German soldiers fought for country and unit loyalty not Nazi ideology.This Society does not support the re enactment of Military groups that have a record of involvement in ethnic cleansing or war crimes against humanity. Some examples being, Russian NKVD, Italian MSVN, the German Shultzestaffel or Croation Ustache
Are you part of the army ?
No, we are all members of the public, interested in preserving military history. Some members are ex-army.
Are your weapons real?
Yes. All our members have firearms licences and permits for the weapons used.
How often does the society meet ?
On the last Sunday of every month.