New Zealand was involved in the Second World War from start to finish due to its close ties with Great Britain. New Zealand fought hard and sacrificed many men in the battles they fought. The Battle of Crete, the North African Campaign and the Battle of Britain are three examples of how New Zealand troops contributed to the Allied effort. His involvement in World War II increased his confidence and strengthened his sense of identity. New Zealand declared war on Germany on September 3, 1939, just after the German invasion of Poland on September 1, 1939. New Zealand and Britain were very close. alliance. If something posed a threat to Britain, then it was a threat to New Zealand. When Italy entered the war alongside Germany on June 10, 1940, New Zealand became much more serious and introduced conscription. On December 7, 1941, New Zealand declared war on Finland, Hungary and Romania. Great Britain, the United States and New Zealand declared war on Japan on December 8, 1941. Also on December 13, 1941, New Zealand declared war on Bulgaria. The Second World War cost the lives of fifty million people, including one in every 150 New Zealanders. The Second World War gave New Zealand a new identity and great confidence about its importance in the world. Around 140,000 New Zealand men and women served in the war. The Allies fought in the North African campaign, which ended with the capitulation of Germany and Italy. This campaign took place between 1940 and 1943. During this period the 2nd New Zealand Division fought in some of the fiercest battles of this desert campaign. In June 1940, Italy decided to enter the war on the side of Germany. This decision endangered Britain's position in Egypt. In September 1940, 250,000 Italian soldiers entered Egypt. The Italians were po...... middle of paper ......e The remaining Allied soldiers surrendered on June 1, 1941. Later, some were able to escape to Egypt with the help of Cretan civilians . Those who were unable to escape were taken to a transit camp without food or water before being transported to mainland Greece. Once in Greece, they were taken to transit camps in Corinth or Salonika. Most of the men were able to flee to the hills due to the lack of security in the camps. New Zealand had a great impact on the outcome of World War II. Additionally, World War II improved New Zealand. New Zealand fought hard, sacrificed many men and helped win many battles. The Second World War led New Zealand to form relationships with other countries that it would probably not have had if it had not fought in the war. The confidence New Zealand enjoys today is due, in part, to its efforts during the Second World War..