NZ Army exercise tests Reserve Force warfighting capability in Southland

The premier Reserve Force warfighting exercise is designed to strengthen leadership at all levels and enhance interoperability between New Zealand and Australian forces, in a realistic and challenging training environment.

Army Reservists are part-time soldiers who bring valuable skills and experience to the New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF), while developing leadership, resilience and teamwork through military service.

Led by 2nd/4th Battalion, Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment, the exercise saw soldiers deploy by C-130J-30 Hercules into Invercargill before moving into the Hokonui Hills area by NH90 Helicopter where they battled a determined opposing force, across challenging terrain.

The exercise culminated in a dawn attack near Waikaia, with North Island Company and Anzac Company (an integrated force of New Zealand and Australian Army Reserves) successfully seizing their objective shortly after first light. 

Exercise Director Lieutenant Colonel Gareth Seeds said the training provided an invaluable opportunity for the Reserve Force to strengthen combat readiness and interoperability with NZ Army Regular Force and ally Australia.

"Watching our Reserve Force soldiers respond to the complexity and chaos of modern operations with confidence, professionalism and competence has been one of the highlights of the exercise," Lieutenant Colonel Seeds said.

"Above all, I'm most proud of how our soldiers embraced their Australian counterparts – not just as allies, but as whānau. Together, shoulder to shoulder, they embodied the Anzac spirit. Kia kaha, kia māia (be strong, be courageous).”   

The two companies were supported by a range of combat and combat support, including engineers, signallers, medics, dental personnel, mounted reconnaissance, logisticians, intelligence specialists, mounted capability, and uncrewed aerial systems operators, as well as Royal New Zealand Air Force security personnel, NH90 helicopters, C-130J Hercules and crew. 

The exercise utilised the Tactical Engagement Simulation System, which uses eye-safe lasers and blank ammunition. This provides realistic force-on-force training and gives valuable feedback for participants and commanders.

Senior NZDF leaders visited the exercise to observe training and engage with personnel. This included the Chief of Defence Force, Chief of Army, Land Component Commander, Assistant Chief of Army (Reserves), Sergeant Major Army Reserve, and Australian Army's 5th Brigade Commander and Brigade Sergeant Major. 

Lieutenant Colonel Seeds acknowledged the support of Gore, Waikaia and wider Southland communities.

“On behalf of the NZ Army, I would like to extend my sincere thanks to the landowners and local communities who have supported Exercise Tauwharenīkau. 

“The NZ Army routinely trains in communities around the country in order to be able to respond in times when we are called upon to assist.

“Their willingness to provide access to their land and welcome our personnel into the area has been critical to the exercise’s success. It ensures the Reserve Force remains ready to support New Zealand at home and overseas.”

For information on the New Zealand Army Reserve Force visit: www.defencecareers.mil.nz(external link) or phone 0800 1 FORCE.