Most of these reasons originate from the Cold War. This was the theoretical struggle for ‘world supremacy’ between Communism, led by the Soviet Union, and Capitalism, led by the US which, although war never actually broke out, sparked questions over alliances and several nations began doubting their security. New Zealand in particular became sceptical that it would be adequately protected under the UN’s collective security. To guarantee its safety, the government realised it woul

Naturally, New Zealand looked to Britain for assurance, however changes in its commonwealth meant that it was no longer the great power it used to hold. As a result, New Zealand engaged in a close defence relationship with the US. This coalition tied New Zealand to America and therefore when the US wanted a favour, New Zealand was expected to reciprocate and offer its support; case in point the Vietnam war.

Although this statement was the government’s premise for its decision to deploy troops, in reality it is safe to say that it was the core of US alliance in New Zealand’s national security doctrine which induced it to reach its reluctant decision to send military contribution to Vietnam. Its no wonder a writer for the Auckland Star wrote on March 6,1969: “It advances the dubious proposition that we got into the Vietnam conflict more because we felt it was right, than to gain American goodwill”

Despite its own judgement, its unease about fighting a war without Britain, and the strain on its military, New Zealand finally decided that the benefits of fighting in Vietnam combined with persistent pressure from American sources overbalanced these cons.

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