1941 New Zealand declares war on Japan

New Zealand’s declaration followed the surprise attack on the United States naval base at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, on the morning of Sunday 7 December (8 December New Zealand time).

Japan also attacked Hong Kong, the Philippines, Thailand and Malaya. The capture of the key British base at Singapore in February 1942 would leave many New Zealanders feeling defenceless, and fearful of an imminent Japanese invasion.

Image: Vincents of No. 1 Squadron, Whenuapai, 1941 (NZETC)