Returned Services Association condemns Nazi replicas sold at Auckland antiques store

Returned Services Association condemns Nazi replicas sold at Auckland antiques store
Photo credit: Google

The New Zealand Returned Services Association (RSA) has condemned an Auckland antiques store for selling Nazi replicas, saying it's "not acceptable".

West Auckland's Just Plane Interesting Antiques and Collectables has been selling multiple Nazi memorabilia collectibles - including SS helmets and a case with swastika jewellery inside.

RSA president BJ Clarke said the case had offended the Jewish community and likely others, therefore it was "not acceptable".

"Our service personnel had served to enable New Zealanders to enjoy freedom of speech," he told Newshub. "However, we must acknowledge that we also have a responsibility not to offend or upset people by that freedom."

The owner of the store acknowledged the memorabilia was offensive, RNZ reports.

Ray, who declined to have his last name published, said hurting people's feelings wasn't the intention.

He told RNZ he would not remove the memorabilia.

"Like fur coats. I don't hunt, I don't kill animals or even go fishing, but I sell fur coats.

"Where do you draw the line with certain things?

"It's just a shop that deals in history."

The Jewish Council has previously had several run-ins with Trade Me over the sale of World War II memorabilia, most of which resulted in the online marketplace withdrawing the items.

It's illegal to sell Nazi artefacts in several European countries. Ebay banned the items from in 2001.

Newshub.