New Zealand in the Vietnam War

New Zealand's involvement in the Vietnam War was controversial and led to many protests at home, similar to those in America. This war was the first where New Zealand did not fight with the United Kingdom, instead following the ANZUS Treaty.

In 1964, New Zealand sent troops to Vietnam because of Cold War worries and to support its allies, the United States and Australia. New Zealand also wanted to fight the spread of communism in Southeast Asia.

The government wanted to stay on the United State's good side, but wasn't sure about the outcome. Prime Minister Keith Holyoake decided to keep New Zealand in Vietnam, but only at the lowest involvement possible to meet the expectations of their allies.


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