New Zealanders have gathered in Solomon Islands to commemorate the Second World War sinking of HMNZS Moa in Tulagi Harbour. Photo: LAC Jenkins
New Zealanders have commemorated World War II sinking of HMNZS Moa in Tulagi Harbour.
Personnel from three New Zealand Defence Force missions, and staff from the New Zealand High Commission in Honiara, were among those who paid their respects at Henderson Field memorial gardens.
HMNZS Moa was one of three Royal New Zealand Navy Bird-class Minesweepers which were patrolling off the coast of Guadalcanal during World War II.
On April 7, 1943, HMNZS Moa was hit directly by a Japanese dive bomber and sank bow-first in under four minutes.
Five ratings from Moa were killed in the explosions, and seven were seriously injured.
Members from NZDF, ADF and various other organisations pay tribute to fallen soldiers of world war 2 at the commemoration of the Moa sinking. Photo: LAC Jenkins
The Royal New Zealand Air Force's Squadron Leader Ash Wilson, who is based in Honiara with the Forum Fisheries Agency, led the ceremony.
He said New Zealand has a long history with Solomon Islands.
"This year marks the 81st commemoration of the sinking of HMNZS Moa," he said.
"We respect and honour our past, our veterans and their service."
Commanding Officer of HMNZS Canterbury, Commander Bronwyn Heslop laid a wreath on behalf of the women and men serving in the New Zealand Defence Force.
New Zealand High Commissioner to Solomon Islands, Jonathan Schwass, also laid a wreath on behalf of the New Zealand Government.