Pūtahi Hauora
Defence Health HubThe OverWatch Network - Rainbow (LGBTTQIAP+) Communities
Ngā Mata o Niwa
Supporting an environment where LGBTTQIAP+ personnel can thrive, while ensuring that the NZDF remains inclusive, capable, and mission-ready.
What is OverWatch?
OverWatch is a network of rainbow-identified Regular Force, Reserve Force, and NZDF Civil Staff who volunteer their time to provide support, guidance, and advice to the NZDF’s LGBTTQIAP+ communities, managers, and those in positions of command.
The LGBTTQIAP+ acronym represents the diversity of rainbow identities. The letters in the acronym stand for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, Takatāpui, queer, intersex, asexual, and pansexual. The plus sign at the end represents other aspects of gender and sexuality not yet captured within the rainbow acronym.
In 2021, OverWatch was gifted the name “Ngā Mata o Niwa” by the Tīwhanawhana Trust—a Takatāpui group based in Wellington. The name translates to “The Eyes of Niwa” (with Niwa being a shortened version of Āniwaniwa, which translates to “rainbow”).
Who do we help?
The OverWatch Network provides support and guidance to the NZDF’s LGBTTQIAP+ communities. With members on Bases and Camps, OverWatch can provide tailored solutions, whether at sea, in a field environment, in the hangar, or in barracks.
How can you get in contact?
Connect with the OverWatch Network via email at OverWatch@nzdf.mil.nz
Any contact received will remain private and confidential (unless it contravenes the Armed Forces Discipline Act 1971). Disclosure of information to a third party will not occur without first acquiring informed consent from the individual/group concerned.
You can also access 24/7 confidential wellbeing support external to the NZDF by contacting NZDF4U Wellbeing Support
NZDF Policy
LGBTTIQ+ Inclusion Plan 2020-2025
The Inclusion Plan details how the NZDF meets the needs of rainbow communities. It is based around three levers for change: Leadership and Capability, Unit Culture, and Inclusive Policy and Practice.
Pride Pledge
In 2022, the NZDF demonstrated its commitment to rainbow personnel by partnering with Pride Pledge.
Pride Pledge supports organisations on their rainbow inclusion journey through consultation, training, and resource sharing. Their website contains downloadable resources designed to upskill people on LGBTTQIAP+ awareness and inclusion – http://pridepledge.co.nz/