Ngarimu V.C

As I looked at them you know I knew what Mum and Dad and Aunty Mataroa would have thought: that the Victoria Cross was alright, you know for valour, and they accepted that, but I think deep down in their hearts they were really sorry that our brother didn’t come back in person.

– Ripeka Heeney, Ngārimu's sister, watching her father Hamuera Ngārimu receving the Cross on Ngārimu's behalf

Mrs Ngārimu and I wish that Moana could be here to receive the tribute paid to us and to all the Māori people, because of what he did to win the Victoria Cross. He loved this country so well that he was proud to fight for it.

– Hamuera Ngārimu, Ngārimu's father, on recieving the Cross on his behalf

For me the Victoria Cross is a symbol of sacrifice, by all who give their lives for their country. It’s not a symbol of individual bravery.

– Keita Walker, Ngārimu's sister