Soldiers from New Zealand Army and Royal Gurkha Rifles sharpen combat skills under the Southern Alps

The biennial Exercise Pacific Kukri enables RGR, an elite Nepalese branch of the British Army, to train their soldiers in New Zealand’s unique and dynamic landscape of Burnham and Tekapo, supported by their New Zealand counterparts.

Major Samuel Ackers, Officer Commanding B Company, 2RGR said, “Our soldiers really appreciate the experience they gain from the challenging New Zealand terrain and value the opportunity to build capability alongside the NZ Army in such a distinct environment.”

The exercise brought together around 50 soldiers from the New Zealand Army, Ngāti Tūmatauenga and approximately 120 Royal Gurkha soldiers to strengthen combat capability, improve interoperability and build readiness to operate together in future exercises or operations.

Commanding Officer of 2nd/1st Battalion, Lieutenant Colonel Jerry Mateparae, said the training reinforced the NZ Army’s ability to work closely with international partners in an increasingly complex security environment. 

“Exercise Pacific Kukri gave us the opportunity to train together here in New Zealand, share knowledge and strengthen relationships that underpin effective operations.

“It ensures we are ready to operate effectively alongside our partners when we need to”, he said.

Supporting the exercise were 2/1 RNZIR’s Fire Support Group (FSG) – infantry heavy weapons specialists, as well as logistics teams, drivers, maintainers and engineers.   

A key phase of this year’s exercise involved the Gurkhas conducting live field firing, supported by the FSG heavy weapons team, including the anti-armoured platoon personnel and direct fire support weapons. 

“Our heavy weapons teams worked closely alongside the Gurkhas during live firing, while our support teams enabled the movement of personnel and equipment across the exercise and took care of repairs,” Lieutenant Colonel Mateparae said.

He said Exercise Pacific Kukri was one of several international military activities in 2026 involving personnel from 2/1 RNZIR. 

“While a large number have deployed offshore this year to support international exercises and operations, exercises like Pacific Kukri provide our people with an opportunity to host partner forces in New Zealand and continue to strengthen the capability and interoperability needed for future operations.”