Serco New Zealand supports SSAANZ to strengthen veteran wellbeing and connection

Serco is a proud supporter of the Soldiers, Sailors and Airmen's Association of New Zealand (SSAANZ) and in 2026, we’re already seeing the impact of this partnership across Aotearoa New Zealand.

As a community-led New Zealand organisation founded and delivered by veterans, SSAANZ creates opportunities for serving and ex-service New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) personnel and their whānau to reconnect, rebuild skills and strengthen wellbeing through shared experience. The model is both simple and powerful: bringing people together through outdoor adventure, with a focus on physical and mental wellbeing, community and practical skills.

Since commencing our partnership in October 2025, SSAANZ has continued to expand its reach from endurance-based initiatives like the Survival Traverse, to a growing calendar of events across the country.

In 2026, that momentum has accelerated.

Already this year, with Serco’s support, SSAANZ has delivered a series of hands-on training and connection opportunities, including hunting skills courses in Whanganui and North Canterbury, and a fly-fishing course in Turangi. These are all practical experiences that build confidence, independence and camaraderie.

Looking ahead, events such as the Southern Traverse in November, a multi-day crossing of the Southern Alps, will bring veterans together in a shared challenge that builds resilience while reinforcing the bonds formed through service. These are not just activities: they are pathways to connection, wellbeing, and long-term support.

Serco’s sponsorship as the prime partner for SSAANZ events in 2026 is helping to expand this reach even further, enabling more New Zealand veterans and their whānau to access meaningful opportunities nationwide. Together, we are supporting a programme that continues to grow in both scale and impact.

The Serco and SSAANZ partnership reflects our broader commitment to supporting Defence and veteran communities across New Zealand, both through our work with the NZDF and by backing organisations that make a meaningful difference in life beyond service.

SSAANZ National Coordinator David Benfell said the partnership is making a tangible impact.

“Serco’s support has allowed us to grow what we do, reaching more veterans, running more events, and strengthening the support network our people rely on,” he says.

“It’s enabling us to continue delivering the kind of meaningful, peer-led experiences that genuinely change lives.”

At Serco, we are proud to stand alongside the SSAANZ team, helping to ensure that those who have served New Zealand continue to be connected, supported and valued.

Serco proudly employs more than 540 veterans and reservists across our Australian and Aotearoa New Zealand operations, because when we invest in people, we strengthen communities.