The memorial in Waimate to the South African War features the figure of Zealandia, a symbol of New Zealand which emerged at the end of the 19th century. Zealandia was the daughter of Britannia. This nationalistic symbol was considered appropriate because involvement in the war was seen as demonstrating New Zealand's important contribution to the British Empire. The inscription reads: 'In commemoration of the South African War in which New Zealand represented by her 6500 volunteers for the first time took part in the battles of the Empire and assisted to maintain the prestige of the British flag.' Only at the bottom of the pedestal does the inscription 'also' honour a local soldier, Trooper Arthur Whitney, who had died in the conflict.
Te whakamahi i tēnei tūemi
Private collection
by Jock Phillips and Chris Maclean
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