Reserve Force challenges help drive Tuakau man in construction and soldiering

A former Tuakau College student, Private Lapwood has worked with his father at Watts and Hughes Construction Group in Auckland since leaving school. 

The 23-year-old is also a member of North Platoon from 38 Combat Service Support Company, part of the 2nd Combat Service Support Battalion.

He recently took part in Exercise Northern Dagger at the Kaipara Air Weapons Range, north of Auckland. The exercise tested soldiers in leadership, tactical movement, and security operations within a simulated operational environment. 

“It was a challenging exercise and a real step up in the complexity of our training,” Private Lapwood said.

During one scenario, his four-vehicle convoy was ambushed at a vulnerable point along a driving route.

“We had to dismount and assault the enemy, and with a potential improvised explosive device threat, it really tested our reactions.  It was exciting and felt like we were in a possible situation.” 

Private Lapwood said his civilian employment has played a significant role in preparing him for his Army role. 

“Working in construction means coordinating people, machinery and timelines in high-pressure environments – that translates directly into my role as a Combat Driver.” 

His father, a site manager with 30 years’ experience in the industry, has provided mentorship and responsibility opportunities.

“When Dad is delayed in Auckland traffic, I’ve sometimes had to run the site until he arrives, dealing with subcontractors and maintaining communication with him,” he said.

Private Lapwood is now completing a two-year Diploma in Construction, majoring in Quantity Surveying at the Institute of Technology in Auckland, attending evening classes alongside his work and military commitments.

Now holding a full Class 2 licence, Private Lapwood is preparing to be assessed on the six-tonne MHOV HX60 in July and is currently working towards his Class 4 licence for the nine-tonne HX58. 

The MHOVs, or Medium and Heavy Operational Vehicles, are the New Zealand Defence Force’s offroad-capable trucks. 

Private Lapwood acknowledged he’s had “a few good learning curves” along the way.  Giving Road Movement Orders (RMO) for the first time in a military context was more challenging than expected. 

“I’ve since given RMOs a second time and with the constructive feedback received last time I’ve worked on the points given to me and it went much better this time round.” 

Combat Drivers are responsible for safely transporting personnel, equipment, and critical supplies, often in complex and high-risk environments where security and precision are essential. 

38 Combat Service Support Company is now preparing for Exercise Tauwharenīkau, a Reserve Force training exercise in July where more than 300 soldiers will operate alongside the Australian Army Reserve in Gore, Southland.

Each Reserve Force company has its own training programme in line with its Battalion’s training focus.  Company led training typically occurs one weekend a month with platoon-level training occurring once a week.  

More information on the New Zealand Army Reserve Force is available at www.defencecareers.mil.nz(external link)  or phone 0800 1 FORCE