Supporting Those Who Serve — Built by Veterans, for Veterans

SSAANZ is a community-led organisation founded and staffed by ex-service members, dedicated to strengthening connections, building community, and providing support for all serving and ex-service personnel.

Our Mission

SSAANZ is dedicated to strengthening connections between serving and ex-service men and women in New Zealand through outdoor pursuits, adventurous activities, and sporting endeavours. Our goal is to foster lasting support, friendship, and Esprit De Corps across all units and within the wider NZDF and veteran community. We honour the unique bond shared by service members and recognise their commitment and sacrifices.

Our Story
Established in early 2018, SSAANZ was created by veterans for veterans, building from the ground up through the passion, dedication, and drive of our volunteer community. Our charity is proudly veteran-led and focused on improving the lives of current and former members of the New Zealand Defence Force.

Membership Eligibility
Membership with SSAANZ is open to anyone who has served with the New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF), whether in a Regular or Territorial capacity.
We also welcome New Zealand citizens who have served in overseas or Commonwealth armed forces through our dedicated Foreign Service subgroup.

Join SSAANZ today and become part of New Zealand’s leading veteran support community through adventure, connection, and camaraderie.

SSAANZ Exists to Honour and Thank Those Who Served New Zealand

Building a Stronger Veteran Community Through Adventure and Support

SSAANZ organises and subsidises sporting events and adventurous activities across New Zealand, offering veterans and current service members opportunities to connect outdoors while improving their physical and mental wellbeing. Our events showcase the best of New Zealand’s landscapes while providing a vital support network for the NZDF veteran community.

Through shared experiences, SSAANZ strengthens the bonds between those who have served, creating a resilient community that supports each other in times of need. At its core, SSAANZ is a thank you to everyone who has been prepared to stand in harm’s way for New Zealand.

Rest Stand Clear (RSC) Program
As part of our charitable work, we offer free spaces in every event we run through our Rest Stand Clear (RSC) program, available to any member of the NZDF community facing physical or mental health challenges. By providing peer-led, accessible support, SSAANZ mirrors the commitment and camaraderie experienced during military service and operational deployments.

Working Together for Better Outcomes
SSAANZ also works closely with other NGOs, government departments, and service organisations across New Zealand to identify gaps in veteran support services. When a shortfall is found, we take action — through fundraising initiatives or direct allocation of funding — to ensure veterans and service members receive the help they deserve.

How you can help.

SSAANZ relies on the support of individuals, organisations, and businesses who share our mission to strengthen and support the NZDF veteran community. There are several ways you can get involved:

1. Service Providers

We are always looking for experienced service providers to help deliver outdoor adventures, skills training, and support services for our veterans. If you can assist with organising adventurous activities, lead outdoor training, or help manage sporting flagship events across New Zealand, we want to hear from you.

2. Supporters

SSAANZ welcomes individuals and businesses who recognise the dedication and sacrifices made by New Zealand's service people. You can support our veteran charity by:

Funding or sponsoring an event
Offering discounts or services to our registered members
Providing equipment or resources for outdoor activities

Your support helps us continue offering vital veteran support programs across New Zealand.

3. Fundraising

As a registered not-for-profit charity, SSAANZ relies on fundraising efforts and generous donations to sustain our activities. Every dollar raised helps us organise veteran adventure events, deliver mental health support programs, and provide cost-free opportunities for struggling service members.

4. Assistance

SSAANZ provides free participation slots in all activities for NZDF members facing physical or mental health challenges through our Rest Stand Clear (RSC) program. We also assist with referrals to government agencies and veteran service organisations.
If you know a service member who could benefit from support, please contact us — together, we can make a difference.

Contact Us