The remains of New Zealand servicemen who served in South East Asia between 1955 and 1971 have finally returned home.

The caskets of 27 soldiers and a servicemen's baby son arrived at Auckland Airport this morning.

Each casket was unloaded from the chartered Air New Zealand jet by six army pallbearers.

The caskets were lined up, accompanied by a Defence Force guard of honour and followed by a Māori blessing and powhiri.

They were then carried into a large hanger for a private service with families.

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern led a team of dignitaries along with about 200 family members.

After the service, each casket left the airport in individual hearses as Defence Force personnel performed a haka.