Napier aviator builds international experience at major Australian exercise

Leading Aviator Nick Dawson wanted a job with “unforgettable experiences”, and deploying to a major air combat exercise with thousands of personnel and some of the world’s best military aircraft has been just the ticket.

13 August, 2026

The 23-year-old from Napier grew up working on his grandfather’s farm and then as a sandblaster after finishing Napier Boys’ High School.

But his goal was to work in a career where he would receive world-class training and make lifelong friends while serving the country and giving back to the community.

With a background in Air Cadets, No. 13 Squadron and an uncle who served as an aircraft systems technician, having a military career was a natural career path for Leading Aviator Dawson.

He joined the Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF) and is now working as a fuel specialist at RNZAF Base Ohakea.

His training has been put to good use at Exercise Pitch Black 2026, in Darwin where Leading Aviator Dawson has spent four weeks training and working alongside Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF).

The exercise is the RAAF’s premier fast jet combat exercise and brought together more than 2,500 people from 21 nations and more than 100 aircraft.

Leading Aviator Nick Dawson has been given a taste of high-octane military aircraft refuelling at Exercise Pitch Black in the Northern Territory

Leading Aviator Dawson’s role was refuelling a variety of jets including F-16s, Rafales, Eurofighters and air mobility aircraft such as C-130Js. The experience has left him with new ambitions.

“I will be taking the knowledge gained on this exercise and passing it on to our junior operators as best as I can.

“I would love to return to Pitch Black as a team lead, as well as get involved in any other exercises and operations that are scheduled in the future.”

Learning to operate the Australian's tankers fuel systems was the biggest challenge that presented itself on exercise, he said.

“Thankfully, RNZAF fuel specialists receive excellent training in heavy vehicle driving and fuel system operation, so I was able to transfer my knowledge to their equipment easily and rapidly, to the point where conducting a refuel with the Australian tankers feels like second nature.”

When not on the flight line behind the fuel pump, Leading Aviator Dawson has a keen interest in trucks, heavy equipment and aircraft.

“I'm stoked that I can be involved in both worlds every day while getting paid for it.”

For those considering joining, Leading Aviator Dawson’s advice was to not delay.

“The biggest hurdle to overcome in the entire process is hitting the ‘submit’ button on your application - but it's a leap of faith that you won't regret.

“If you're not sure what role will suit you best, stop by your local recruitment office for a chat.”