Defence Minister Jonathan Coleman is joining hundreds of volunteers collecting for the annual Poppy Day appeal today.
Dr Coleman said about 150 Defence Force staffers, two US Marines and volunteers from Veteran's Affairs New Zealand would be supporting the Poppy Day appeal in Wellington today.
"Poppy Day is one of New Zealand's oldest nationwide appeals, and it is great to see New Zealanders give their support. These donations are vital to local Returned and Services' Association's so they can continue to help veterans, ex-service personnel, and their families," Dr Coleman said.
"Wearing a poppy on Anzac Day is a way of paying tribute to the New Zealanders who made the ultimate sacrifice whilst serving their country. This year has even more significance with the start of WWI centenary commemorations."
More than one million poppies are expected be distributed this year as part of the annual appeal.
