Māori Pioneer Battalion: War Heroes

Brave soldiers from Aotearoa New Zealand Their courage and sacrifice in World War I Learning about our history together

Important Vocabulary

Pioneer - soldiers who prepare the way for others Battalion - a large group of soldiers (about 800 men) Gallipoli - a place in Turkey where many battles happened Trenches - deep holes dug in the ground for protection ANZAC - Australian and New Zealand Army Corps

What do you think a 'Pioneer Battalion' did?

Think about what the word 'pioneer' means How might soldiers 'prepare the way' for others? Share your ideas with a partner

Reading Together - Page 1

The Māori Pioneer Battalion was formed in 1915 Over 2000 Māori men volunteered to serve They wanted to fight alongside their Pākehā brothers Many came from all over New Zealand

Think-Pair-Share

Why do you think so many Māori men wanted to volunteer? What does this tell us about their character? Discuss with your partner for 2 minutes Be ready to share your thoughts

Reading Together - Their Journey

The battalion sailed to Egypt for training They learned to build roads and railways They dug trenches and prepared battlefields Their work was dangerous but very important

How do you think the soldiers felt being so far from home?

Think about leaving your whānau and friends Imagine being in a hot, sandy desert What would help you feel brave? What would you miss most about New Zealand?

Their Battles and Bravery

Their Legacy - What We Remember

Many soldiers were wounded or killed They showed incredible courage and aroha They proved Māori were equal partners in New Zealand We remember them on ANZAC Day every year

Remembering Our Heroes

"They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old. Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn. At the going down of the sun and in the morning, we will remember them." - From the Ode of Remembrance