Rotorua Reserve Force soldier rises to the challenge and is set for world stage

It’s been a busy year so far for Rotorua’s Private Otomo Hanzlik, who has gone from a prestigious infantry competition win, to the dynamics of open-country conflict scenarios near Whanganui this month.

05 May, 2026

Private Hanzlik has been taking part in Exercise Italy, which emulates a mid-intensity conflict in the South West Pacific.

The exercise, involving over 60 personnel, is intended to develop platoon commanders and their personnel in battle handling lessons and engaging in quick attacks in open country.

The former Rotorua Western Heights High School and Massey University student has fully embraced Reserve Force life, training with 5^th/7^th Battalion, Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment (5/7 RNZIR).

The battalion enjoyed a significant milestone this year when their ten-person team, including Private Hanzlik, won the fiercely contested 1st (NZ) Brigade Skill at Arms competition, held at Waiouru Military Training Area. It is the first time a team of reservists have won the competition, taking on nine other teams from New Zealand, Australia, Fiji and Tonga.

Private Otomo Hanzlik mans the light support weapon (left) with the assistant gunner

Private Otomo Hanzlik fires the light support weapon during a scenario-based training exercise in Whanganui, with the assistant gunner in support

“We had a great team, and the more experienced soldiers showed me how to do things along the way,” he said.

“I have strong admiration for my mates and the other soldiers behind the scenes who gave me the opportunity to be part of it. A few years ago, I would not have the inkling of the idea that I would be there.”

Having completed Reserve Force infantry corps training in January this year, Private Hanzlik (24) was the most junior soldier in both the Skill at Arms and Exercise Italy.

He was introduced to the Reserve Force last year through a ’buddy’ recruiting initiative during a Whanganui unit exercise. Civilians interested in joining are provided a ‘buddy’ to introduce them to Reserve Force training.

Assistant Chief of Army (Reserves) Colonel Brendon Jull said, “Private Hanzlik, as the most junior member, showed resilience and a willingness to learn from experienced leadership.”

He said for those considering service, the Reserve Force offers a tangible opportunity to develop world-class skills, while making a real contribution to New Zealand’s society and defence.

Private Otomo Hanzlik

The Skill at Arms win means 5/7 RNZIR will represent New Zealand at the Cambrian Patrol in the United Kingdom this October.

Cambrian Patrol is an Army competition, drawing teams from militaries around the world. This will be the first time a New Zealand Army Reserve unit team has competed on the global stage.

The battalion is now preparing for Exercise Tauwharenikau, an annual Reserve Force collective training activity to be held in July at Gore, in Southland.

The exercise will see Reserve Force units operate alongside the Australian Army Reserve in a company‑level, scenario‑based field training exercise involving more than 300 soldiers.