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Hero image for New Zealand Munitions

New Zealand Munitions

Short Film (Full Length) – 1941

This classic World War ll propaganda film tours a range of Kiwi factories, reassuring viewers that New Zealand has the heavy industry required to supply its army. Washing machine factories are converted to make hand grenade parts, while others manufacture rifle cartridges and training planes. Soldiers and members of the Home Guard train with grenades, mortars and fast-moving bren gun carriers. Narrator Bill Pollard entones: "This is our striking power: men and munitions." The film was completed in December 1941, four months after government filmmaking body the National Film Unit was born. 

In the last war, only uniforms, boots, saddlery, light personal equipment and small arms ammunition were made in New Zealand. Since those days heavy industry has developed.
– Narrator Bob Pollard

Key Cast & Crew

See all 7 credits

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