NZ veterans for opening of Hyde Park memorial

Thirty-two armed forces veterans are to be flown to London for the opening of a New Zealand memorial there.

The official dedication for the memorial, on Hyde Park Corner, will be on Armistice Day, November 11.

Prime Minister Helen Clark, who is also Minister for Arts, Culture and Heritage, said it was fitting for a large contingent of veterans to attend.

"The London memorial will symbolise the contribution and sacrifice made by New Zealand during armed conflicts alongside the United Kingdom," she said. "The memorial is expected to become a particular focus for Anzac Day commemorations."

To be eligible for the ballot to attend the service, veterans need to have enlisted as a member of the New Zealand Armed Forces and served in:

* World War II, with either New Zealand or British forces.

* The British Commonwealth Occupation Force of Japan (2 NZEF Japan, J Force).

* Korea (K Force).

* The Malayan Emergency, Indonesian Confrontation or Thai/Malay Border campaigns.

- NZPA