Support Services

Support Services

Support Services

Gunners Supporting Gunners

One of the strongest traditions in the Royal New Zealand Artillery community is that we look after our own. Whether you’re still serving or long retired, that sense of shared experience—of Gunners supporting Gunners—remains a vital part of who we are. It’s often through informal conversations and trusted mates that support needs are first identified and acted on.

To strengthen that safety net, the RNZA Association is putting in place a liaison system to tap into the RSA’s well-established national welfare network. This initiative will make it easier for our members to access professional assistance when needed.

Direct Access to Expert Support

RSA support services are available to all current and former serving personnel and their families, whether or not they are RSA members. Through the RSA’s nationwide network, they can connect you with the right support people in your area.

We will be working to ensure that RNZA Association members can access these services more directly through our emerging liaison arrangement.

Types of Assistance Available

The RSA support network can help with a wide range of services, including:

  • Home visits to assess support needs and provide home safety assessments
  • Help with Veterans’ Affairs applications, including Disablement or Surviving Spouse Pensions
  • Referrals to health services such as hearing aids, physiotherapy, or podiatry
  • Applications for personal care services like home help or showering assistance
  • Guidance on the Total Mobility Scheme (half-price taxi fares and mobility parking permits)
  • Assistance with medical alarms, including sourcing funding
  • Ongoing support such as arranging regular RSA visits or St John’s Caring Caller service

  • Help applying for RSA funding and rates rebates

WINZ and Veterans’ Pension Support

Support Advisors can also provide information and assistance regarding Work and Income NZ (WINZ) services. This includes:

  • Applying for the Veterans Pension
  • Accessing the Disability Allowance or a Community Services Card
  • Support for GP fees, transport, prescriptions, podiatry, and other essential services

Even if you’re already receiving a Veterans or Surviving Spouse Pension, you may still be eligible for additional support.

How to Get Help

If you think any of this might apply to you—or someone you know—don’t hesitate to get in touch. Contact the RNZA Association through our website or Committee members, and we will guide you through the next steps and connect you with the appropriate RSA welfare personnel.

Strength in Our Own Network

While this new arrangement opens the door to formal support services, it’s equally important to recognise the power of our own community. Many gunners have quietly stepped up to help a mate in need—driving them to appointments, helping with paperwork, or just being there when things get tough. This grassroots support is often the first and most effective line of assistance.

We encourage every member to keep an eye out for their fellow gunners. If you think someone could use a hand or a listening ear, check in with them. If you’re not sure how to help, reach out to the Association—we’re here to back each other up.

That’s the core of this initiative: Gunners Supporting Gunners. It’s what we’ve always done—and now, with a stronger connection to the RSA support network, we’re in a better position than ever to make sure no gunner goes unsupported.