Waverley Royal New Zealand Air Force graduate re-joins to train in critical care

Waverley Aircraftman Olivia Manson completed her recruit training alongside nearly 90 others during a 12-week course, one of the largest recruit contingents to graduate in recent years. She now heads to Burnham to begin her medic trade training. 

As a medic, she will be trained to provide critical care in a range of environments, supporting personnel in New Zealand and on operations overseas. In demanding and high-tempo situations, medics play a key role in keeping personnel in the fight and ensuring teams can continue to operate safely and effectively.

For Aircraftman Manson, the decision to return to the Defence Force and join the RNZAF was driven by a desire for a meaningful and purposeful career.

“I want a fulfilling career helping others in need,” she said.

Her pathway into the Air Force has not been a typical one. After leaving high school, she joined the Royal New Zealand Navy as a seamanship combat specialist, before spending time working overseas on super yachts and then returned to New Zealand to work within her family business.

After experiencing life outside the military, she felt drawn back to the Defence Force.

“I’ve come back into the NZDF after time as a civilian as nothing compares to the lifestyle the Defence Force offers.”

Recruit training had provided opportunities to put her skills into practice, with one of the highlights being Exercise He Taua at Dip Flat, St Arnaud, where recruits applied their training in a realistic field environment. 

“Using blanks when firing was a big highlight when engaging with the enemy party. It added another layer of realism compared to previous training I’ve done, and really brought everything together.” 

Flight Commander Operational Development of recruit training, Squadron Leader David Lee said recruits are trained to develop the discipline and mindset required to operate in military environments.

“You train as you operate – the training reflects both daily routines and the basic military tasks aviators are expected to perform, whether deployed at home or overseas,” he said.

Looking ahead, Aircraftman Manson plans to complete a Health Science degree in paramedicine and continue developing her skills, preparing to operate in environments where rapid decision-making and care under pressure are critical. 

“The camaraderie is a really big thing for me, being surrounded by like-minded people working toward the same goal was a big attraction to returning. 

“I’ve formed new and meaningful connections on the recruit course.

“I enjoy the fact that there is purpose to your work, especially as a medic helping others who need it. You’re not going to get this level of training anywhere else, and I don’t think you get the experiences you get in the New Zealand Defence Force outside,” she said.