Labour supports Willie Apiata's move.
The Labour Party has expressed its support for New Zealand Army medic and Victoria Cross recipient Willie Apiata's decision to hand over his medal to the Minister for Veterans. This selfless act is seen as a powerful gesture on behalf of all those who have served their country.
Labour's veterans' affairs spokesperson, Greg O'Connor, praised Apiata's action, saying it speaks for many who have served. He understands the significance of Apiata's move and believes Labour can work with the Minister to reform the outdated veterans' qualifying system. The current system creates a two-tiered system, where those who served after 1974 are not entitled to the same support as those who served before that date.
O'Connor proposed working together to fix the system over the longer term, regardless of political affiliation. He cited Australia's more consistent veterans' support system and expressed willingness to collaborate with the Minister on better supporting New Zealand veterans in the future.