New Zealand troops played a major and absolutely pivotal role in the battle, winning two Victoria Crosses in the process.

Ageing war veterans will likely have their airfare and accommodation costs for attending upcoming 70th commemorations covered by the government, Defence Minister Wayne Mapp says.

New Zealand war heroes in their 90s ended up paying to attend commemorations in Europe.

John Key will today become the first New Zealand leader to address the Australian Parliament.

Our misplaced trust in the Government over our role in a far-off war has come back to haunt us.

Sixteen veterans of the Battle of Crete where 671 New Zealanders were killed 70 years ago were honoured today, with wreaths laid at the National War Memorial to mark the battle.

Labour is accusing John Key of using his police security officers more than he needs to.

Civil Defence plans to create "safe corridors" to buildings within Christchurch's quake-ravaged central business district.

Police have named another seven victims of last month's Christchurch earthquake.

More than 10 per cent of buildings demolished in Christchurch following last month's quake were levelled without the knowledge of their owners.