14/09/2026
Today we remember the Battle of Britain.
We think of all those from New Zealand who served in the Battle, especially those who paid the ultimate price. We will remember them.
From the Auckland Museum
One hundred and thirty five New Zealanders fought during Battle of Britain from the 10th July to 31st October 1940.
The majority of New Zealanders served with three Royal Air Forces Commands; Fighter, Coastal and Bomber. Those that served with the Fighter Command were directly involved with the battle, but those that served with the Bomber and Coastal commands also played a crucial role. The Bomber command destroyed at least 10% of German invasion craft and damaged ports and other facilities, and the Coastal Command rescued many of the pilots who ditched in or bailed out over the channel.
The participation of New Zealand's air men in the Battle of Britain made up about 4.4 percent of those that served during the Battle, our participation was one of the largest of the Allies, excluding the British and pilots from the Polish Air Force.
Many New Zealanders played crucial roles, including Sir Keith Rodney Park who played a vital role in the defence of Britain during the battle. He commanded the No. 11 Group in the South of England where some of the fiercest fighting was taking place. 'His direction was outstanding: he coolly juggled his squadrons to meet incoming raids, focused on the Luftwaffe's bombers, and adapted to change in enemy tactics.'
In 1947 Lord Tedder, head of the Royal Air Force said of Keith Park ‘If ever any one man won the Battle of Britain, he did. I don’t believe it is realised how much that one man, with his leadership, his calm judgment and his skill, did to save not only this country, but the world’.
The Battle of Britain was won due to the organisational skills of the Royal Air Forces leaders, including Sir Keith Park, the courage of the pilots who persisted against the odds and the failure of the Luftwaffe to destroy Britain's radar stations and aircraft factories. With the Battle won, Allied victory was possible.
New Zealand's contribution to the Battle of Britain was honoured with the formation of the No. 485 (NZ) Fighter Squadron, the first New Zealand squadron of the Royal Air Force in March 1941.
Below you can find all the New Zealanders who participated in the Battle of Britain.
Images: X/The Battle of Britain Memorial/Military History Matters/X.Com
