The First World War

Our World War I programme is suitable for year levels 7-13.

Our teachers will help students develop their understanding of New Zealand’s place in WWI, the forging of our Anzac relationship, some of the key leaders and decision makers during this time, and consider the cost of war. They’ll have the opportunity to learn about the weapons and technology of the day and how adaptions were made to make them fit for purpose.

The guided tour is supported by our Handling Collection for World War I where students can handle genuine artefacts from WWI, and Grandpa’s Suitcase where students can unpack what items returned home from the war.

To support your learning in the classroom, here are some other resources available to you:

• For Primary School teachers, you already have a wonderful selection of non-fiction readings in your school that will help your students understand more about WWI. We have put together a list of School Journal reading resources to help get you started.
• For the Secondary School teachers and educators, we have a collection of Primary Sources excerpts collected from our Kippenberger Military Archive from WWI NZ soldiers’ diaries.
• This is an oldie, but a goodie. Listen to the soldiers who served at Gallipoli as they tell their stories of suffering, grief, and courage in this documentary: Gallipoli – The New Zealand Story narrated by Lt. Gen. Sir Leonard Thornton.
• Watch this clip to find out about the Pioneers and WWI: The New Zealand Pioneer Battalion.