Auckland Royal New Zealand Air Force graduate to shape a safer future keeping aircraft mission-ready

Part of the largest recruit contingent to graduate in recent years, Aircraftman Taku was one of nearly 90 recruits who completed the 12-week course ahead of moving on to his trade training.

From navigation and communication systems to mission equipment, an avionics technician’s work plays a critical role in operations, enabling aircraft to operate and return safely and effectively in deployment.

At 29, having previously worked in the flooring industry, the decision to join the RNZAF was shaped by both family legacy and a shift in perspective following the birth of Aircraftman Taku’s child.

“Having a contribution to New Zealand’s part on the world stage is important to me. My daughter is the inspiration, I started seeing the world through her eyes rather than just my own.

“It made me think toward the future a lot more, how the shape of the world is going, and I wanted her to grow up in a safer environment,” he said.

Military service also runs deep in Aircraftman Taku’s family, with relatives having served across the Army and Air Force over several decades. From roles in artillery, transport and communications, their experiences and commitment to service helped shape his own decision to join.

Recruit training has pushed him physically and mentally, but the biggest challenge has been time away from his family.

“Being separated from my family is one of the hardest things I’ve ever experienced, but it has driven me to persevere,” he said.

To stay connected, Aircraftman Taku found his own way of maintaining that connection throughout the course.

“For 10 weeks I wrote letters every day and sent them once a week. It felt like I was talking to my child in that moment, it helped me reflect and stay focused on why I’m here,” he said.

Short phone calls and video chats also became an important part of staying connected with his daughter.

“Seeing her learn new words and dances from kindergarten kept me going. Every time I had a hard day, that gave me the motivation to keep pushing through.”

Despite the challenges, he has found purpose in both the training and the people around him.

“Meeting like-minded aviators and pushing my boundaries has been a highlight.”

Flight Commander Operational Development of recruit training, Squadron Leader David Lee said recruits are trained to develop the discipline and mindset required to operate in military environments.

“They leave with stronger self-confidence, personal discipline and a clear sense of service before self, along with the ability to operate in field and deployed environments,” he said.

Looking ahead, Aircraftman Taku hopes to become an effective member of the RNZAF, applying his skills to keep aircraft operationally ready at home and abroad.

His advice to others considering joining is simple. “If you think you have what it takes, absolutely do it.”