Poppy Day lifeblood of RSA

For over 85 years, war veterans and volunteers have stood on street corners in support one of New Zealand's oldest appeals Poppy Day.

Every Friday before Anzac Day, volunteers around the country hand out red poppies in exchange for donations to the Returned and Services Association (RSA).

The RSA requires more than $2 million each year to do its welfare work, more than half of which comes from donations received on Poppy Day. The fund provides financial, social and emotional help to those affected by conflict, including supporting veterans with health care and financial assistance.

Gavin Taylor served in the New Zealand Army in the Pacific Islands during World War II and has been a member of the RSA for over 65 years. He is one of many ex-servicemen who collect on Poppy Day and march in remembrance at the Dawn Service on Anzac Day.

"I believe the RSA does a good job and their support of the veterans is important. It works," he said.

RSA national president Robin Klitscher said he was incredibly humbled by the generosity shown on Poppy Day.

"It's our life blood. I say thank you to the people of New Zealand it's tremendously encouraging to see such support."

- © Fairfax NZ News