“For you the War is over”

This phrase, heard by the approximately 450 New Zealand airmen captured in German-occupied Europe during World War Two, marked the beginning of their new lives as Prisoners of War (POWs). This required adjusting to life ‘behind the wire’, surviving on limited rations, dealing with difficult living conditions and coping with boredom.

‘Captured!’ follows the journey of a POW in Europe, revealing what it was like to be shot down, captured, interrogated and imprisoned. It highlights the personal stories of New Zealand’s airmen who were POWs and gives an insight into everyday life in a POW camp, describing escape attempts, forced marches and eventual liberation.

This interactive exhibition will engage visitors of all ages. Don’t miss capturing your own POW mug shot!

Discover more thrilling stories of escape, evasion and capture by booking a Captured-themed group visit or Education Programme