US marines arrive by train in Papakura, WW2

After the entry of Japan into WW2 and most of NZ's personnel stationed in Britain and the Middle East, US marines were sent out to bolster the country's home defences, later embarking for the Pacific campaign.  Despite the common language, the cultures were at that time rather different.  An interesting summary is on the NZ history website

The distinctive footbridge at Papakura was replaced about 5 years ago.