This article records recognition and memorials to New Zealand's coast-watching personnel of the Second World War, particularly those relating to Post Office staff.
Tarawa
1944: US Marines erect a coconut wood memorial to the executed coast-watchers and civilians on Tarawa. In November 2002 the Office of Australian War Graves , Department of Veterans Affairs replaces the memorial to commemorate the 60th Anniversary of the killings.
1948: Roll of Honour Memorials are distributed to Post Office Radio Stations and offices. Copies are still displayed at Musick Memorial Radio Station and Awarua Communications Museum.
2012: A special service is held at the National War Memorial, Wellington at the 70th Anniversary of the deaths. A commitment is made to establish a permanent memorial in Wellington.
2014: A Coastwatchers Memorial is unveiled at New Zealand Post House, Wellington.
2022: A National Commemoration of Second World War Coastwatchers service was held at Pukeahu National War Memorial Park.
Civilian Coastwatchers
2024: The Governor General presents Certificates of Recognition at a Coastwatchers Recognition Ceremony in Wellington to the families of civilian coast-watchers who had not previously been formally recognised.
References:
Maritime Radio - Roll of Honour
New Zealand History - Coastwatchers Memorial
Civilian Certificate Recognition Ceremony