6.4 New Zealand's participation in the First World War

New Zealand's participation in World War I was driven by loyalty to the British Empire and a desire for international recognition. The conflict had a profound impact on the nation, with over 100,000 men enlisting and conscription introduced in 1916.

The war effort transformed New Zealand society, economy, and national identity. It led to increased government intervention, changing gender roles, and a stronger sense of nationhood. The experiences of soldiers and nurses in various theaters of war left lasting impacts on the country.

New Zealand's involvement in WWI

Motivations and Initial Response

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• British dominion status and strong loyalty to the Empire drove New Zealand's participation in World War I
• "King and Country" concept motivated New Zealanders to support the war effort reflecting deep-seated colonial mentality
• Prime Minister William Massey viewed war participation as opportunity for international recognition and national identity assertion
• Initial widespread enthusiasm known as the "Great Adventure" led to high volunteer rates (over 100,000 men enlisted)
• Government introduced conscription in 1916 marking shift in approach due to growing demands of conflict
  • Conscription applied to men aged 20-45, with some exemptions for essential workers

Impact on New Zealand Society

• War led to increased government intervention in economy (price controls, rationing)
• Changes in gender roles occurred as women took on traditionally male jobs (munitions factories, farming)
• Stronger sense of national identity emerged separate from British identity
• Exacerbated social tensions regarding conscientious objectors and treatment of ethnic minorities
  • German New Zealanders faced discrimination and internment
  • Conscientious objectors (around 2,600 men) faced imprisonment and forced labor
• Introduction of censorship and propaganda to maintain public support for the war effort

Military Contributions of New Zealand troops

Gallipoli Campaign (1915-1916)

• New Zealand Expeditionary Force (NZEF) played crucial role in initial landings and subsequent operations
• Gained reputation for tenacity and skill during August Offensive, particularly in Battle of Chunuk Bair
  • New Zealand troops briefly held strategic position before being overwhelmed
• Evacuation in December 1915 ended costly campaign with significant casualties (2,779 New Zealand deaths)
• Gallipoli experience had lasting impact on national psyche and helped forge ANZAC identity

Western Front Campaigns

• New Zealand forces involved in major battles including the Somme (1916), Messines (1917), and Passchendaele (1917)
• Battle of Messines (June 1917) particularly noteworthy for New Zealand Division
  • Successfully captured objectives using innovative tactics (underground mines)
• Participated in Allied counter-offensives of 1918
  • Involved in Battle of Amiens and Hundred Days Offensive leading to war's end
• New Zealand troops known for their adaptability and effectiveness in trench warfare

Other Theaters of War

• Mounted Rifles Brigade made important contributions to Palestine Campaign
  • Participated in actions such as Battle of Beersheba (1917)
• New Zealand forces also served in naval operations and in support roles across various fronts
• Small contingent of New Zealand troops participated in the North Russia Intervention (1918-1919)

Experiences of New Zealand soldiers and nurses

Challenges in Combat Zones

• Faced harsh trench conditions on Western Front
  • Constant threat from artillery bombardments, poison gas attacks (chlorine, phosgene)
  • Disease prevalent due to unsanitary conditions (trench foot, dysentery)
• Psychological impact of trench warfare significant
  • "Shell shock" (now recognized as PTSD) affected many soldiers
  • Led to long-term mental health issues for veterans
• High casualty rates meant soldiers often witnessed deaths of friends and comrades
  • Profound grief and trauma common experiences

Medical Service and Nursing

• New Zealand nurses served in various theaters including hospital ships and field hospitals
• Faced dangers such as enemy attacks and infectious diseases (influenza, typhoid)
• Provided critical medical care often in challenging conditions (limited supplies, overwhelming casualties)
• Nurses gained new skills and responsibilities, contributing to advancement of medical practices

Cultural and Personal Challenges

• Adaptation to unfamiliar cultures and environments required, especially in Middle East
  • Challenges included extreme climate, unfamiliar diseases, and cultural differences
• Long periods of separation from families and loved ones
  • Limited communication (letters often delayed or censored) added to emotional strain
• Māori soldiers faced additional challenges related to cultural differences and discrimination
  • Served in both integrated and separate units (Māori Pioneer Battalion)
  • War offered opportunities for recognition and respect, but also highlighted racial inequalities

Consequences of WWI for New Zealand

Demographic and Social Impact

• Significant loss of life: over 18,000 deaths and 41,000 wounded out of population of just over one million
• Profound impact on families and communities across the country
  • Many towns and rural areas lost significant portion of young male population
• Accelerated social changes, particularly in women's roles
  • Women took on traditionally male-dominated jobs (factories, farming)
  • Gained greater economic independence, contributing to push for expanded rights

Economic Consequences

• Increased government debt due to war expenditure
• Inflation and redirection of resources towards war effort led to shortages
• Rationing implemented on home front (sugar, meat, petrol)
• Post-war economic challenges included reintegration of returned soldiers and shift from wartime to peacetime economy

Political and International Relations

• Strengthened sense of national identity separate from British identity
• Greater assertion of autonomy within British Empire
  • New Zealand signed Treaty of Versailles as independent nation
  • Gained membership in League of Nations
• Strained relationship with Britain led to gradual reassessment of colonial ties
• Growing emphasis on regional interests in the Pacific

Domestic Policy Changes

• Increased government intervention in economy and society
  • Set precedents for expansion of state power in post-war period
• Development of new welfare policies to support returned soldiers
  • War Pensions Act 1915 provided financial support for disabled veterans and dependents
• Pressure on healthcare and social support systems due to returning injured soldiers
  • Led to improvements in medical care and rehabilitation services