The mother of an SAS soldier honoured for his bravery in Afghanistan says nothing will compensate for his death but he "wouldn't have had it any other way".

MPs will give way to New Zealand soldiers - including SAS troops - and their families this evening for a ceremony in Parliament's debating chamber.

Kiwis are talking about the news Corporal Willie Apiata is stepping down from the military.

The soldier collapsed after suffering extreme heat stroke during a selection course.