Cold War NZ embassy service staff officially recognised

Defence Force {NZDF) staff sent to the New Zealand Embassy in Moscow at the height of Cold War tensions have been officially recognised for their service. About 150 NZDF personnel were sent between 1978 and 1992 as guards and to help with construction work. They can now qualify for the support and services offered by Veterans' Affairs. A New Zealand diplomat living in Moscow at the time has applauded the move, while a Vietnam war veteran who fought a compensation claim says it's a good sign for other veterans.