The Dunedin RSA this month sent a letter inviting Cpl Apiata to visit Dunedin for commemorations on November 11.
Past-president Fred Daniel said the RSA was now awaiting a response, but it would make Dunedin's unique memorial plaque to Victoria Cross winners complete if Cpl Apiata, the newest recipient and whose name was inscribed in the Queens Gardens plaque last year, came to see it, Mr Daniel said.
Nine New Zealand VC holders were present when the plaque, which is the only commemorative memorial in the country inscribed with the names of every New Zealander awarded the VC, was first unveiled in Dunedin by then governor-general Sir Willoughby Norrie in 1957.
Cpl Apiata's attendance depended on several factors, not the least of which was he was still a serving soldier and could be called into service anywhere, anytime, but also that he was in demand for engagements.
"We'd be over the moon if he accepted. He's not had an opportunity to see the plaque, which recognises the extraordinary gallantry of those VC holders. It would make the plaque complete and give Dunedin people the chance to recognise his efforts as well."
If he accepts the invitation, Cpl Apiata would be invited to take part in and give an address during Armistice Day commemorations, which include a ceremony in which a single wreath will be laid at the cenotaph in Queens Gardens, followed by a city-wide gun salute and two minutes' silence at 11am - the 11th hour, of the 11th day of the 11th month, the symbolic end of World War 1 in 1918.
Cpl Apiata would then be invited to examine the VC plaque and visit Montecillo War Veterans Home and Hospital in St Kilda to meet veterans celebrating the home's second anniversary.
Cpl Apiata, from the eastern Bay of Plenty town of Te Kaha, was awarded the bravery medal for rescuing an injured fellow soldier under enemy fire while both were serving with the SAS in 2004.
