Softcover, 178 pages, black and white photographs
Hodder Moa Beckett 2005, ISBN 1-86971-021-5
RR $29.99

During the early stages of the New Zealand’s Division war in the Middle East, General Bernard Freyberg issued an order to one of his staff to start preparing for a Kiwi rugby team to visit the United Kingdom at the cessation of hostilities. The result was in September 1945; a 2NZEF team toured the British Isles, Ireland, France and Germany. The men came from all units of the Division and some were ex-POWs.

The final acts of this team were a tour of New Zealand in early 1946.

The author has captured the very essence of this tour, and the men that eclipsed the goals that Freyberg had set.

A human interest story of dedication by these soldiers as they transformed themselves from the terrors of war to the hardship of the rugby field.

Credit must be given to the current NZ Army for getting in behind this work that is a highly recommended read.