The Government is guaranteeing $1.1 million over the next four years for the RSA and No Duff Charitable Trust to help fund their mental health support services for veterans.
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern and Minister for Veterans Ron Mark have announced the funding on the eve of Anzac Day.
The funding will see $250,000 going to the Returned and Services Association and $25,000 to No Duff annually.
Mr Mark says New Zealand now has around 41,000 veterans, around 30,000 of those are contemporary veterans from conflicts such as Vietnam, East Timor and Afghanistan.
"We’re seeing cases of Post-Traumatic Stress Injury, and many of our younger men and women are returning from operational service in need of help," he said.
The RSA has worked hard to modernise its services to meet this emerging need, he said.
"They are a great example of an organisation which has evolved and they are wonderful advocates for veterans."
Alongside them, No Duff have become valued and trusted first responders, Mr Mark said.
"They've been there for many of our people in need and their reputation only grows by the day."
Mr Mark says he's focused on ensuring we have the right support in place for service people when they come back from operations.
"Today’' announcement is a small part of the overall picture, but it’s significant.
"It shows this Government is concerned about the health and wellbeing of all New Zealanders, but it acknowledges veterans have some complex issues which may need more specialist support services. It's heart-warming to see organisations such as the RSA and No Duff stepping up and making a difference," the Minister said.
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