Intense six weeks produces motivated reservists

After six intensive weeks of basic training they have developed resilience, learnt the basics of warfighting and made new mates.

Recruits learn a wide range of skills including weapons training, navigation, field craft and first aid.  They are introduced to the first level of the New Zealand Defence Force Leadership Development Framework, Lead Self.  The framework progresses through various leadership courses which are part of the NZDF culture, encouraging each rank level to actively embrace change and responsibilities.

All Army recruits are trained at The Army Depot (TAD) at Waiouru Military Camp.  The Commanding Officer of TAD, Lieutenant Colonel Kevin Williams, explains the recruit training is the entry level into the Army Reserve Force. 

“It is an intensive and compact course due to the high number of learning objectives that need to be achieved in a short period of time. 

“Recruits arrive motivated to learn - they are taking time away from employment or are accustomed to study through university. 

“However, while the course is intense there is opportunity to put the lessonsinto practice during the field exercise.  Exercise Kairangi is the final part of recruit training and consolidates all soldiering skills taught in a realistic environment.”

Company Sergeant Major for this course, Staff Sergeant Mike Halliday, says recruits are given a presentation on the recruit training, prior to coming to Waiouru.  

“I give them a presentation so they understand what to expect, they can talk to their employer and prepare family for the time away.  I’ve spent many years in both the Reserve and Regular Force so can answer the variety of questions that come up. 

“On completion of training, recruits find many of the skills are directly transferable to their civilian employment – leadership, time management and resilience are skills useful in any occupation.” 

After completing recruit training, soldiers head to a variety of trades and corps, including infantry, armoured, medic, combat engineer, and combat driver where they will complete specific training.

“One of the interesting points of the recruits is their broad civilian life occupations,” said Staff Sergeant Halliday.

“They include pilots, farmers, police officers, students, stay at home parents, software engineers, tradies and even a flight paramedic, so recruits come from all walks of life.”