This memorial stands on the Devonport waterfront outside the Devonport naval base. It incorporates a memorial rock, one of a pair of rocks which the Korean city of Pusan sent to New Zealand in 2000 (the other was unveiled in Wellington on 9 December 2000).
The inscription on the accompanying plaque reads (all in capitals): New Zealand United Nations service / Republic of Korea 1950 - 1954 / This plaque commemorates the Royal New Zealand Navy commitment to the defence / of the principles of the Charter of the United Nations military forces when provided / to that international body to repel aggression against the Republic of Korea from / 25 June 1950 to 27 July 1953 / and for peace keeping operations until July 1956. // The composition of the RNZN operation element were the frigates, HMNZ ships Tutira, Pukaki, Rotoiti / Hawea, Taupo and Kaniere with the first two ships departing from Devonport Naval Base 3 July 1950. // 1600 personnel were involved during the deployment and three sailors lost / lives. The RNZN service to the United Nations is hereby recorded. // Korea - the forgotten war // New Zealand Korea Veteran's Association / 2000 / Lest we forget // [outline of a frigate] // this memorial rock was provided by the city of Pusan in the year 2000 in recognition of the / RNZN support to the Republic of Korea in repelling aggression against their country.
Images and text: Bruce Ringer, 2020