Life and Lessons | World War II Nurses

Between 1939 and 1945, nurses from the New Zealand Army Nursing Service were deployed in England, North Africa, Greece, Syria, Italy and the Pacific, serving in hospitals, casualty clearing stations and on hospital ships. At the end of the war, some continued to serve in Japan as part of Jayforce. 

During the festival we will be remembering these nurses and what they taught us about leadership, resilience, adapting to rapidly changing circumstances, and improvisation.

The Nurses’ Memorial Chapel, built in 1927 sits adjacent to the botanical gardens in its own beautiful and tranquil setting, surrounded by a stunning memorial garden. This heritage building is believed to be the only purpose-built hospital chapel in the world that commemorates all women who died in the Great Wars and /or the 1918 Influenza Pandemic.

Open days at the Chapel will provide an opportunity to find out about this history and experience this magnificent Arts and Crafts building, featuring 12 beautiful stained-glass windows, furniture carved by two local craftsmen and a boutique museum.

Hear a talk

Life and Lessons | World War II Nurses – Saturday 11 October, 2pm to 3pm

Image: Nurses departing from Wellington during World War II. Charles P S Boyer, 28 August 1940. Alexander Turnbull Library, Wellington, New Zealand.