A New Zealander who played a crucial role in bringing peace and independence to Timor-Leste has been recognised with one of that country’s highest honours.

Harrogate-born Yvonne Gray trained as a teacher and once hoped to open her own restaurant. Instead she said she found her perfect niche as a naval officer, first in the Royal Navy and now in the Pacific with the Royal New Zealand Navy (RNZN).

Auckland criminal barrister James Olsen loves his work and can’t imagine practising any other kind of law. But he can imagine himself as a legal officer in the New Zealand Defence Force.

Keeping a team of three helicopters almost constantly airborne is no mean feat, and Royal New Zealand Air Force Detachment Commander, Squadron Leader Andy Scrase credits the maintainer crews for making that possible in the wake of Cyclone Gabrielle.

Private Owen Rayner (pictured left) joined our New Zealand Army Reserve Force last year hoping to serve his country.

Matariki is the Māori name for a cluster of stars also known as Pleiades which rises in midwinter, and signals the start of a new year for Māori. It’s an opportunity for all people to gather with family and friends to reflect on the year that’s been, celebrate the present, and plan for the future.

Emotions ran high during a solemn rededication and remembrance ceremony held on the Gallipoli Peninsula at the place where NZ Maori Contingent made its camp before the assault on the heights of Chunuk Bair during World War I.

Being the only female soldier in a class of 30-odd men was like having 30 brothers, says Lieutenant Colonel (LTCOL) Vanessa Ropitini who commissioned from the ranks and is now Commanding Officer of 2nd Combat Service Support Battalion.

Four New Zealand professionals describe their transition to specialist officers in the New Zealand Defence Force.