The Rehabilitation of Servicemen of World War II in New Zealand, 1940 to 1954

Abstract

The rehabilitation of servicemen was seen as the first and most important aspect of post-war reconstruction in New Zealand. The emphasis placed on rehabilitation was a natural result of New Zealand experience and traditions. New Zealand had willingly shouldered her obligations as a member of the British Empire, and in the two World Wars her servicemen had won acclaim – but at a heavy cost. Rehabilitation schemes were a means of rewarding heroes and making up for their sacrifices. New Zealand's long tradition of state action to promote human welfare also suggested that the organisation of rehabilitation should be an important state responsibility. The Labour Government took a wide ranging view of the state's scheme. The way was clear for the more specialized effort of rehabilitation. Because of the importance placed on rehabilitation New Zealanders were willing to tolerate controls and participate in experiments. Wartime measures to contain inflation and share scarce resources were continued into peacetime, and new initiatives were taken in social and economic policy and in administration. The main object of the rehabilitation policy was to re-establish servicemen and women in New Zealand society on equal terms with other citizens. But the Government also saw it as a means of increasing opportunities for all new Zealanders. Schemes to settle ex-servicemen on the land, to train them in trades, to assist the disabled and to give Maoris equal opportunities with Pakehas hastened rehabilitation. They also provided a starting point for developments which would benefit all New Zealanders. Public enthusiasm for rehabilitation made possible experiments which brought private citizens and voluntary organisations into the administration of state schemes. One reason for the emphasis placed on rehabilitation in New Zealand was the belief, based on experience after World War I, that exceptional efforts World be needed. Full employment and buoyant economic re-establishment of World War II servicemen in civilian life unexpectedly smooth. Though true equality of sacrifice and equality of opportunity proved unattainable, the rehabilitation scheme was successful in speedily reintegrating servicemen into civilian life.