Deploying is NZDF Soldier of the Year's biggest buzz

Corporal Gabriel Dewes, Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment, Ngāti Porou, is this year’s Soldier of the Year after demonstrating exceptional leadership, professionalism, and sustained excellence over the past 12 months.

His citation notes his consistent performance at a level that distinguishes him among his peers and exemplifies the very best qualities of a New Zealand Army soldier.

A regimental training Non-Commissioned Officer at Waiouru Military Camp’s The Army Depot, Corporal Dewes is a recruit instructor working on the development of NZ Army recruits, the professional growth of fellow instructors, and the capability of the wider training establishment.

While his family is from the East Cape, he was born in Palmerston North, growing up in the Manawatū, before joining the NZ Army in 2014.

“It was something of a family thing,” he says. “I’ve had family members serve in the 28^th (Māori) Battalion. My dad is still in the NZ Army and I’ve had a couple of uncles in the NZ Army.” 

Both his peers and recruits have commended him for his instructional ability, professionalism and commitment. Beyond the classroom, he regularly coaches and mentors fellow instructors to improve training delivery and maintain the highest standards across the instructor cadre. 

The biggest “buzz” is being deployed, he says, whether instructing or on operations. 

Last year he was selected to deploy to Fiji as an instructor with the Republic of Fiji Military Forces, a role reserved for highly capable soldiers with proven leadership, technical mastery, and professional credibility.

While there and during a major field training exercise, Corporal Dewes assumed command of a section following the unexpected evacuation of a staff member, ensuring training objectives were achieved while safeguarding the welfare of personnel under difficult conditions.

Out of uniform, Corporal Dewes is an enthusiastic hunter and revels in the opportunities afforded to him in the Central Plateau.

His citation describes him as “outstanding role model…a highly deserving recipient of the 2026 NZDF Soldier of the Year Award”.