Prime Minister John Key has hailed the efforts of US Marines in New Zealand during World War 2, on the 70th anniversary of their arrival.
The anniversary was marked on today by a wreath-laying ceremony at the National War Memorial in Wellington.
"They made a remarkable contribution,” Mr Key told the gathering. “It was a pivotal time for New Zealand, they did some good work, including out here."
US ships don't visit New Zealand under the nuclear-free law passed in the 1980s, but Mr Key said he hoped New Zealand could host the US Coast Guard, which would fit with New Zealand law, Fairfax reported.
About 15 people, including prominent activist Valerie Morse, protested against US military involvement in Iraq and Afghanistan at the event, laying their own wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Warrior.
The Concerned Citizens Collective protesters say the event was more about pushing for closer ties at present than commemorating the past.
Another ceremony is due to be held at Parliament this evening.
MPs unanimously passed a motion in the house recalling New Zealand's gratitude for the protection the US provided while NZ troops were engaged in the Middle East and Europe, and noting the growing strength of political security and economic co-operation between the two countries.
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