NIGHT VISION >> RECRUITMENT - Royal New Zealand Air Force

V I S I T O U R W E B S I T E : W W W . A I R F O R C E . M I L . N Z
FORCE
77 D
E C 0 6 AIR
>> PAGEANTRY
>> NIGHT VISION
>> RECRUITMENT
>> HYDE PARK
AFN77 DECEMBER 06 www.airforce.mil.nz
R O Y A L N E W Z E A L A N D A I R F O R C E NEWS
T H R E E S E R V I C E S A S O N E F O R C E , B E I N G T H E B E S T I N E V E R Y T H I N G W E D O
1

F I R S T W O R D
A CHRISTMAS MESSAGE
Our Air Force has had another busy
year, which as usual has been made
up of some challenges but many
rewards. We can all be proud of what we
have achieved during 2006; too many for
me to attempt to list them all here. Perhaps
three key activities epitomise the effort
and teamwork, although there are many
examples. The work across the Air Force
to pull together the Strategic Plan that will
guide us through the next five years or so,
the incredible effort to save Project JEMS
and achieve the go-live in early November,
and the very successful Operation Union
Jack to the UK for the unveiling of the NZ
Memorial in London. These activities were
excellent examples of Air Force people
working with each other and people from
other organisations to achieve excellent
results – teamwork, integrity, professionalism
and commitment were demonstrated in
abundance. Thank you for these and
the many other successful operations and
activities concluded this year.
I would like to specifically thank our
family and friends who have supported our
endeavours throughout 2006. We often
need to work long and inconvenient hours
and we rely on our support teams at home
to assist in coping with these. We are very
grateful for the understanding and support
given us by our spouses, partners, family and
friends. Without you we could not be as
operationally effective as we are.
I ask that we all spare a thought at
Christmas for our personnel who are
deployed overseas and their families.
Christmas is traditionally a time when families
gather to relax and enjoy each other’s
company. Many of our people will not have
this pleasure this year – our thoughts are with
you and your families.
Thanks again to all of our Air Force family
for 2006. I trust that as many as possible will
take a good long break, gather with family and
friends, and enjoy a safe, fun, and relaxing
holiday. You deserve it.
Merry Christmas
AVM Graham Lintott
AFN77 DECEMBER 06 www.airforce.mil.nz
DECEMBER 2006, ISSUE 77
OUR MISSION:
To carry out military air operations to advance New
Zealand’s security interests, with professionalism,
integrity and teamwork.
OUR VISION:
We will be an Air Force that is the best in all we do.
He Tauarangi matou ko te pai rawa atu i to matou
mahi katoa.
The offi cial journal and forum of the Royal New
Zealand Air Force established for the information,
education and enjoyment of its personnel and other
people interested in RNZAF and associated matters.
Published by: NZDF Public Relations Unit
NZDF HQ
Editorial contributions and letters to the editor are welcome.
All contributions may be sent direct to Air Force News and do
not need to be forwarded through normal command chains.
Letters are to be signed with the writer’s name, rank and
unit although, unless requested otherwise, only the rank
and geographical location of the writer will be published.
The editorial staff reserves the right to abridge letters.
Anonymous, offensive or abusive letters will not be published.
Opinions expressed in Air Force News are not necessarily
those of the RNZAF or NZDF. Nothing in NEWS should
be taken as overriding any Defence regulations. Readers
should refer to the relevant Service publication before acting
on any information given in this periodical. No item is to be
reproduced, in part or whole, without the specifi c permission
of the editor.
Wellington
New Zealand
Telephone: (04) 496 0289
Fax:(04) 496 0290
Editorial authority: Ian Brunton
Editor: Grant Carr
grant.carr@nzdf.mil.nz
Design and Layout: Duncan Allan
duncan.allan@nzdf.mil.nz
Proofreader: Katrina Randerson
Printed by: Keeling and Mundy Limited
PO Box 61
Palmerston North
AFN77 DECEMBER 06 www.airforce.mil.nz
FEATURES
4 CHANGES AT THE TOP
WGCDRs posted
5 ICEBERG ARMADA
Orion crew first to spot icebergs
6 A KIWI JOINS THE RED ARROWS
RAF’s prestigious aerobatics team
7 W/O AIR FORCE
The year that was
8 RECRUITMENT
An interview with the Director
11 YOUR EFFORTS APPRECIATED
A word from the CDF
12 ENGINE HEALTH MONITORING
Fit and healthy engines
14 CO REPORTS
End of year roundup
17 MO-MENTOUS EFFORT
Movember
18 PERS CORNER
Update
19 OVERLAND CAPABILITY
No.5 Squadron exercise with NZ Army
20 AFGHANISTAN
Up in smoke
22 FESTIVE FARE
Holiday indulgence
24 NIGHT VISION GOGGLES
Subtantial capability enhancement
26 YEAR OF THE VETERAN
Pageant, Armistice activities,
honour boards, Spitfire hero,
poppy emblem, heritage garden
46 RNZAFA CONFERENCE
47 JUICE MUSIC AWARDS
REGULARS
2
COVER PHOTO:
Conversion pilot FLTLT Will Neill and LT
Darren Smith familiarise themselves with
NVG procedures.
>>
>>
>>
1
>>
AFN77 DECEMBER 06 www.airforce.mil.nz
38 SPORT
Half marathon, Sportsperson of
the Year, Rugby, Diving
51 AIR FORCE MUSEUM
3
WN 06-0329-02 W/O HCM DAVE MORGAN
LAVs AND P-3K ORIONS: The NZ Army and No.5 Squadron have begun joint exercises testing
the P-3K Orion’s new electro-optic overland capability (see page 19).
FORCE
R O Y A L N E W Z E A L A N D A I R F O R C NEWS
E
77
AIR
C O N T E N T S
2LT Robert Paterson, his brother FGOFF Sam
Paterson and their family travelled 15,000 miles to
mark the 66th anniversary of their uncle, Spitfire
pilot FLTLT Jimmy Paterson's death (see page 35).
AK 06-0516-03
WN 06-0320-03

4
B R I E F S
CO APPOINTMENTS WASHINGTON WREATH
Chief of Air Force AVM Graham Lintott announced
the following appointments of Commanding Officers
with effect as detailed.
WGCDR Ian MacPherson was appointed CO
No.3 Squadron (with effect from 22 July 2006).
WGCDR Logan Cudby is appointed CO No.5
Squadron (with effect from 30 September 2006).
WGCDR Anthony Millsom is appointed CO
Operational Support Squadron (with effect from 25
November 2006).
SQNLDR Darryn Webb is appointed CO Flying
Training Wing (with effect from 18 December 2006)
on promotion to substantive WGCDR.
SQNLDR Russell Mardon is appointed CO Air
Base Wing Ohakea (with effect from 18 December
2006) on promotion to Acting WGCDR.
SQNLDR Allan Jenkinson is appointed CO MW
(With effect from 18 December 2006) on promotion
to substantive WGCDR.
WGCDR Kevin McEvoy is appointed CO No.40
Squadron (with effect from 16 December 2006).
SQNLDR Carol Abraham is appointed CO
Ground Training Wing (with effect from 27 January
2007) on promotion to Acting WGCDR.
WGCDR Andy Robertson is appointed CO MSW
(with effect from 3 February 2007).
Other postings resulting from these appointments
include:
WGCDR John Lovatt posted to Texas as the P-
3K2 Project Manager (with effect from 13 October
2006).
WGCDR Leanne Woon posted to Texas as the
P-3K2 Project Logistics Officer (with effect from 25
November 2006).
WGCDR Carl Nixon is appointed Deputy
Director Air Capability (with effect from 9 December
2006).
SQNLDR Chris Clark is appointed FWTF LIS
Team (C130/B757 Upgrade Project) Leader (with
effect from 16 December 2006) on promotion to
substantive WGCDR.
WGCDR Johan Bosch is posted to the new post
of Director Air Force Safety Within HQ 485 Wing
(with effect from 18 December 2006).
WGCDR Peter Griffin is posted to Washington
as Senior Technical Officer (Air)/ Assistant Defence
Attaché (Air) (with effect from 15 January 2007).
WGCDR Tony Davies is posted to J3 branch of
HQJFNZ (with effect from 16 January 2007).
During a brief visit to Washington on 31 October Minister of Veterans Affairs the Honourable
Rick Barker lay a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington Cemetery.
NEW FIRE-FIGHTERS CERTIFICATE
SGT Tim Hunt
The Joint Service Fire School (JSFS), SME,
has been awarding NZ Qualifications
Authority (NZQA) unit standards to the
Basic Fire (BFF) and Intermediate Fire
(IFF) courses since 2002.
With the introduction of the unit
standards these qualifications have
been reviewed and changed as per the
operational outputs of each Fire Flight
and Fire Troop within the NZDF.
Since its introduction students were
awarded individual unit standards.
The introduction of the new Junior
Fire Command and Control course in
July along with administration by Fire
and Rescue Services Industry Training
Organisation (FRSITO), has seen the
JSFS place students attending fire
courses on Limited Credit Programmes
(LCP).
For the future the JSFS, through
FRSITO, is proposing a National
Certificate for NZDF Fire-fighters
for students attending courses at
the school and carrying out OJT
at each Fire Flight and Fire Troop
between fire courses. The proposal
has been submitted to the NZQA for
approval.
While attending each course
at the JSFS, and on approval of
NZQA, students will be awarded the
following National Certificates (NC)
on obtaining competency at each unit
standard awarded:
BFF – NC Level 2
IFF – NC Level 3
Junior Fire Command & Control
– NC Level 4
Senior Fire Command & Control
– NC Level 5.
F/S Horsley is awarded his National Certificate Level 3 (Airports) by Rick Sloman, Super
Region Moderator for FRSITO.
AFN77 DECEMBER 06 www.airforce.mil.nz
WN 06-0321-01 ANTONY ALEXANDER
OH 060582-01 LAC BRAD HANSON
A
routine No.5 Squadron P-3K Orion NZ Exclusive Economic
Zone fisheries patrol encountered an armada of about 100
icebergs concentrated in two groups south of New Zealand
on Friday 3 November. The first group was no more than 261km
south of Invercargill.
Pilot Leader aboard the Orion, SQNLDR Andy Nielson, said that
‘the area tasked for the day was to patrol the southern waters south
of Stewart Island. We had transited southwards from Whenuapai
and had been on low level patrol for about 20 minutes when the
radar located numerous contacts. On investigation these were
identified as icebergs. Radar located the contacts but from about
20nm the crew were able to visually identify the contacts. He says
the crew was ‘very surprised’ to see icebergs this far north (about
130 nm south of Stewart Island). ‘It’s not uncommon to see
icebergs in the southern ocean but normally we’d expect to see
them up to 600nm further south.’ He estimated the largest to be
2km by 1.5km and more than 130m high. With about 90 percent
of the icebergs mass underwater that’s a lot of frozen water.
Experts now agree the icebergs would have come from the other
side of Antarctica when a mammoth sheet of ice broke off the
Ross or Amery ice shelves. The original iceberg would have been
more than 100km long and 1500m deep.
AWESOME: One of about 100 icebergs spotted little over 260km south of Invercargill.
I C E B E R G S
ICEBERG ARMADA SPOTTED
AFN77 DECEMBER 06 www.airforce.mil.nz
National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research (NIWAR)
oceanographer Dr David Williams says the icebergs could not be
linked to global warming. He said icebergs were seen as far north
as Chatham Islands in the late 1800s, and there was a claimed
sighting off Dunedin in 1931.
Maritime New Zealand is putting out regular updates of the
armada’s position based on reports from aircraft and vessels
using the area.
Above: Another of the massive chunks of Antarctic ice.
Top: A close look at the blue-marbled icebergs.
WN 06-0318-02 NO.5 SQUADRON
WN 06-0318-01 NO.5 SQUADRON
5

A Kiwi Joins the RED ARROWS
A former RNZAF pilot has joined
the Royal Air Force’s prestigious
Red Arrows aerobatic team
for their 2007 season. FLTLT
Andrew ‘Boomer’ Keith, aged
32, joined the Red Arrows in
October as Arrow 3.
Born in Howick, Auckland, Boomer’s
interest in flying was inspired at an early
age by his father’s passion for aviation.
Boomer and his father would frequently
fly together at the local aero-club and
drawing on his father’s engineering
background they subsequently built their
own aircraft, a Thorpe T18.
Educated at Howick College, Boomer
completed his bursary exams and joined
the RNZAF in 1994 at the age of 18.
After flying training Boomer was posted
to the ‘strike’ role and flew the Aermacchi
MB339C trainer and the A4 Skyhawk
strike attack aircraft in Australia and New
Zealand.
In January 2002 Boomer transferred to
ABOVE: The Red Arrows
in action.
LEFT: FLTLT Andy
‘Boomer’ Keith, aka
Arrow 3.
the Royal Air Force and was posted to the
Harrier GR7. He has served with IV(AC)
Squadron and conducted three operational
tours in Afghanistan, flying reconnaissance
and close air support missions in support of
British and Coalition ground forces.
Boomer’s partner is Emma who is also
an officer in the Royal Air Force. When
not at work he enjoys all sorts of outdoor
activities including windsurfing, diving,
mountain biking and skiing. Although no
longer playing competitively Boomer enjoys
both playing and watching rugby.
‘It is a great honour to be selected to join
the Red Arrows,’ he said.
Based at RAF Scampton in Linconshire the
Red Arrows currently fly the RAF’s advanced
fast jet trainer; the BAE SYSTEMS Hawk T.
Mk.1. The Red Arrows began work in late
1964 to prepare for the 1965 Air Display
Season. The Squadron was officially
constituted on 1 March 1965. The name
Red Arrows comes from the fact that RAF
training aircraft were predominantly red
in colour. The ‘arrows’ part of the title
was in recognition of the Black Arrows,
a very popular squadron aerobatic team
in the late 50s and early 60s. There are
nine display pilots each year, including the
Team Leader.
6 7
AFN77 DECEMBER 06 www.airforce.mil.nz
THE YEAR THAT WAS
Warrant Officer of the Air Force
Keith Gell
2006 was another great year with some notable
achievements. The end of the year is always a good
time to reflect, so here are a few from me:
The CAF handover parade. With lots of
emotion, it was a great farewell and a great
welcome for the new Chief.
New Chief of Air Force. He has already made
his intentions clear, especially when it comes to
waste and bureaucracy. Come on Commanders, it’s
time to walk the talk.
Project Takitini, finally seeing some
progress. The next milestone is the middle of next
year. Let’s hope funding allows us to push the ‘go’
button all the way, not half the way.
The JEMS Team. There’s just One word for it:
COMMITMENT. No one else could have done
what you have achieved. There’s still some more
work to do, but given the timeline and dollars
available, it was a great effort.
NCO School. A new syllabus with new staff was
introduced. Again a great effort which, I believe,
puts us on the right track for NCO leadership
development.
Sport. Soccer, Softball, Hockey, Cricket,
Basketball, you are all winners. And for the League
boys - your time will come.
Our young Officers and Junior Ranks. Keep
the throttle forward, it keeps our line dancers on
their toes.
No. 40 Squadron and Air Movements. The
AFN77 DECEMBER 06 www.airforce.mil.nz
K E I T H G E L L
W A R R A N T O F F I C E R O F T H E A I R F O R C E
Solomons, East Timor, Tonga, Afghanistan, Op
Union Jack, Deep Freeze and everything else,
sometimes at the same time. A bouquet for you.
NH 90. I don’t know what the fuss was all about.
It is pretty obvious to me that this is the frame New
Zealand needs.
No.3 Squadron. 40 years of Huey operations. It
was an awesome occasion. This is a Squadron at
the ready.
No.5 Squadron. 40 years also. Watch out for
the future, it’s coming your way. It could do with
some more maintainers though, especially engine
runners.
No. 6 Squadron. They have always delivered for
our Navy, and are known as the quiet achievers.
The London Memorial unveiling. Our Air
Force vision says it all. ‘To be an Air force that is the
best in all we do’. Well done to our parade people,
and well done No. 40 Squadron.
Personnel. Yes we are growing - slowly. CDF has
asked for our patience and support as we move into
the future.
NZDF. Our strength is in our Air Force, working
with Navy and Army, as one Force.
NZDF ID Card. An interim RNZAF solution will at
least ease the operaational problems.
It’s not the drinking, it’s how we are
drinking. Remember it’s culture we are trying to
influence, we’ve got enough rules and regulations.
Have a great Christmas and welcome the New Year
in with a challenge. I’ll be in Mount Maunganui
with the whanau as a wannabe surfer. God bless
you all, especially our deployed personnel and their
families.

8
Q
Q
Q
R E C R U I T M E N T R E C R U I T M E N T
QUESTIONS FOR THE DIRECTOR OF RECRUITING
Air Force News Editor Grant Carr spoke to the Air Force’s Director of Recruiting SQNLDR Shaun
Sexton about the use of on-line recruiting techniques and the opportunities and pitfalls of recruiting
C-Generation.
How does this generation differ from previous
generations?
There is a lot of mythology about the differences between
generations. I believe there are as many similarities as there
are differences between generations. Differences come down
to the way people are brought up. They reflect societal
attitudes and changes.
We are targeting what’s known as the C-Generation, which
is all about content, creativity and control. They have different
tools and ways of expressing themselves from previous
generations. There’s text messaging, and in particular the
Internet (for example myspace and Utube). They can create
their own content and control what they say and to whom
they are talking. In many ways being technologically savvy
suits us as an organisation. We are technologically advanced
and becoming more so. If you take a broad-brush approach
we are looking for people with those skills and it is reflected
in our entry criteria which is set quite high with an emphasis
on technological understanding.
What strategies/approaches has the Air Force adopted to
try to recruit from this generation?
Youth of today expect immediacy in their communication.
They are the me, here and now generation. Using text
messaging as a recruitment tool is one way of improving
our engagement with youth.
What is really exciting is the launch of an interactive game
on the Internet. Air Force Special Ops is an alternative reality
game - a real live manhunt (see page 10). The prize is what
we’re calling the Ultimate Air Force Experience. They have
to solve a series of career-related challenges and each task
relates to one of our trades or specialisations. Air Force
Special Ops is the big focus for our recruiting effort.
(SQNLDR Sexton takes a phone call). That was one of our
recruiters reporting on the first day for Air Force Special Ops
schools promotion. We’ve been getting into schools and the
recruiter was just reporting on a whole class in Invercargill
who’ve all registered. It’s created a lot of interest so that’s
what I mean by the interactive approach being a great way
of reaching our target audience.
What are the main obstacles to recruiting from C-
Generation?
The main obstacle is New Zealand’s high employment
level. It’s just about as close to 100 percent as you can get.
Plus it’s a highly competitive tertiary training environment
and the government subsidises a lot of training. These all
make it relatively tough to recruit. When you combine that
with youth’s attitude towards advertising - that is they are
bombarded with so much mainstream advertising that they
become immune to it. So with all that we’ve had to find other
Q
Q
Q
Q
ways of communicating. That’s why initiatives like Special
Ops are so important. We could have gone with just a TV
ad but this gets them involved and participating.
What about attracting re-entries – people who’ve been in
the AF or a Service before and have skills/knowledge you’d
like to attract? How do you contact these people?
It has been a focus. We’ve been actively seeking reenlistments
as an on-going thing. There’s also been the UK
recruitment that’s managed by a separate cell within Air
Force. That has been the main lateral recruitment focus.
Certainly this year the majority of lateral recruits have been
ex-RAF from the UK. The key fact about that group is that
they are coming into the middle of the organisation, filling
the holes, and reducing the hurt. I think we’ll start to see the
real outcomes of that. We’re expecting a further 70 or 80
of them to arrive this financial year. I think we are really
starting to see the real benefits of the UK programme. .
What about the ATC? Is that still a good source of
recruits?
Yes. We try to work with ATC as much as we can. But the data
is not very robust as to how many we get in. Anecdotally I’d
say it’s still quite a successful pool for us.
What is your ideal recruit?
It depends on what they are applying for – officer or noncommissioned.
We look for quite different things. For
airmen and airwomen we look mostly at the ‘R’ test scores.
There are seven tests — pass marks are different for each
trade. They are established by the psychologists based on
analysis of historical data from the relevant trade training.
As well as cognitive ability I think anyone coming into the
Air Force needs to be friendly, outgoing and good in a team
environment. They also need to be flexible and to live up
to the common sense Kiwi No.8 wire thing. That ability to
adapt and think on your feet has always been one of the Air
Force’s strengths.
But we also offer something pretty much for everybody. I
think we could take most people and so long as they had
some vocational interest and suitable cognitive skills our
training system could mould them to be a great trade and
service person. We only take in 200 to 300 new recruits,
including Officers, Airmen and Airwomen, each year.
What part does getting into schools or career expos and
addressing groups or individuals play in your strategy?
Recruiting officers talking in schools, going to expos, talking
to ATC groups and aviation specialist groups are very
important and a large part of what we do. While recruiters
have the lead it’s the responsibility of all members of the
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
organisation to get out there and assist us. On the whole
serving members of the RNZAF have been very supportive
in terms of talking to the community and engaging positively
with them. There’s always room for more of that and it doesn’t
have to be at recruiting’s behest.
What aspect of the Air Force do people find most
attractive?
(SQNLDR Sexton puts this question to LAC Loren Mehaffy)
You are working in a structured environment but there’s plenty
of extra-curricular activity and you can have a good social
life. There’s the camaraderie. You make friends for life and
the Air Force virtually becomes your second family. There are
a variety of people you work with, especially in my job.
SQNLDR Sexton: We can offer something that most other
corporates can’t. That’s one career for at least 20 years and
within that you can do many different jobs. The variety and
the people keep me here.
Do you think the upgrades of equipment and new aircraft
have made it easier to recruit?
We try to get that message out there. Certainly we’re
highlighting that information for people when we can. It
should help with both external and internal recruitment.
What are the basic qualifications the Air Force wants when
it’s recruiting for ranks/for officers?
Broadly, for officers it’s 18 credits including English, maths
and a science subject at Level 2. For non-commissioned
trades it varies greatly across trades, the one generalisation
I can make is we are always looking for at least NCEA Level
1 in English and maths.
How many recruitment offices does the Air Force have and
how many recruitment staff? What sort of training do they
get?
There are five recruitment offices. Auckland (covering from
Taupo north) has 6 uniformed staff plus a civilian. Palmerston
North (covering the area from Levin up to Taupo) has 3
uniformed staff plus a civilian. Wellington has 2 uniformed
staff. Christchurch (Oamaru up to Nelson) has 3 uniformed
plus a civilian and Dunedin (south of Oamaru) has 2
uniformed staff.
They get some training with the psychologists on
interviewing and testing but mostly the training is on the job.
They are mainly officers and SNCOs.
What makes a good recruiter?
A key skill is the ability to interact with youth and be well
presented and engaging. We try to select our recruitment
officers but to be frank we often don’t have the luxury.
Recruiting is an awesome way to have a break from a service
persons primary specialisation for a couple of years and get
out and about to meet new people in a relatively autonomous
work environment.
AFN77 DECEMBER 06 www.airforce.mil.nz
AFN77 DECEMBER 06 www.airforce.mil.nz
Continued page 10
OH 06-0603-06
OH 06-0603-08
OH 06-0603-04
OH 06-0603-03
>>> 9

AIR FORCE
SPECIAL OPS
The Air Force has just launched a new
web-based interactive game unlike
anything New Zealand has seen before.
YOUR EFFORTS
APPRECIATED
AFN77 DECEMBER 06 www.airforce.mil.nz
L T G E N J E R R Y M A T E P A R A E
C H I E F O F N E W Z E A L A N D D E F E N C E F O R C E
Air Force Special Ops is a training exercise, a test of wits, an insight into today’s
Air Force and a real-life nationwide manhunt in which gamers will have to use
the web, text, email, getting out and about – whatever gets the job done in
order to solve the clues and find the parachutist to win the ultimate Air Force
experience.
Users register to take part and are then
given their challenges on various levels –
logic problems, training scenarios, research,
Chief of Defence Force,
personnel are achieving abroad.
mathematical ability, mental dexterity and even physical fitness. Challenges
LT GEN Jerry Mateparae
At home you assist communities in times of crisis and
involve multiple media including online, email, text, and pxt.
emergency - such as this year’s snow relief effort in the
The interactive online recruitment vehicle or Vocational Reality Game (VRG)
With Christmas fast approaching and a high workload at South Island, and in the flash flooding in the Rangitikei
has three objectives:
the unit, base, ship and camp levels, I want to take this district in July. You have worked on various search and
To engage with the recruitment target audience and encourage ‘suitable’
opportunity to tell you that your efforts are valued and rescue operations and closely with other government
applicants.
appreciated – not only by me, VCDF and your respective agencies, particularly the Departments of Conservation,
To highlight the diversity of careers available within the Air Force and to
Chief of Service, but also much more widely - by our Fisheries, Customs and the Police. In August you farwelled
allow users to identify with potential trade careers.
government and our overseas allies.
Dame Te Atairangikaahu, the Maori Queen, ably assisting
To encourage users to have fun while learning about the Air Force sparking
Speaking at the Defence Industry Forum in October, with preparations at her tangi at Turangawaewae Marae.
passion and enthusiasm for the RNZAF.
Defence Minister Phil Goff applauded NZDF’s efforts in This year you also formally farwelled the King of Tonga
The game’s launch was accompanied by follow up work including PR stunts,
promoting stability and the opportunity for development and welcomed a new Governor General.
press releases to the media, emails to schools career advisors, fly posters and
in many spots overseas. Similarly, military leaders are Working together as three Services, one Force, you have
a punchy TV advertisement.
consistently commending our performance abroad, shown our commitment, dedication and professionalism.
Prizes for winners of the game include a VIP Air Force Experience including
evidenced when the US Government awarded NZDF You should be proud of your contribution to both New
a helicopter trip to the final location and other ‘goodies’.
personnel medals for their service in Afghanistan in Zealand and the international community.
Director of Air Force Recruiting SQNLDR Shaun Sexton says the game is
October. We continue to take a pro-active and lead role in In return for your continued efforts you can look forward
a focus of the Air Force’s recruiting activity over the next months. ‘The Air
joint exercises with overseas counterparts, a recent example to enhanced conditions of service, and the kind of
Force Special Ops allows us to communicate with them in a medium that
being the recent Bersama Padu exercise with Australian, equipment that will enable you to work more efficiently
they know and understand. It uses multiple channels to draw in our target
British, Malaysian and Singaporean forces.
and effectively than you do now.
audience,’ he said.
We are currently
It is perhaps easier
www.airforcespecialops.co.nz
involved in three
major deployments,
a n d h a v e 6 7 2
personnel in 19
missions across 15
It’s your work - building trust and
friendship with overseas nations
and promoting trade partnerships -
to reflect on what
we haven’t got in
terms of equipment
or capability, but I
think we should take
Q
In the November Air Force News the CAF AVM Lintott describes
our people as ‘the hidden weapon in our recruiting arsenal’
Do you agree?
Yes. I do agree. Our people are our biggest exponent. Even
if it’s just talking to friends and family or attending a careers
evening at the local school they have the potential to do a
lot of great recruitment work. This does not necessarily mean Q
is in No.3 Squadron. I was a QHI and deputy flight
commander.
Are there any other points about recruitment you’d like
to make?
One fact I’d like to point out is that some trades are a lot
more challenging than others. For example Avionics and
countries, including
a moment to look
that helps to cement New Zealand’s
Afghanistan, the
back with pride on
Solomon Islands, reputation as a responsible
what we have got
Timor-Leste and
and what you have
m o r e r e c e n t l y
international citizen.
achieved.
Tonga. It’s your
Three weeks ago
work - building trust and friendship with overseas nations the Defence Minister released the latest version of the Long
and promoting trade partnerships - that helps to cement Term Development Plan. It announced seven new projects
New Zealand’s reputation as a responsible international – such as upgrades for the ANZAC frigates, a new power
citizen.
generation and reticulation system for Devonport Naval Base,
getting people to sign on the dotted line – it is as much about
AEOP are difficult to recruit for but, along with several
Our Servicemen and women posted overseas support and an upgrade for the taxiway at Ohakea Air Base.
informing people about who we are and what we do and
other trades are very valuable in the context of our future
humanitarian efforts and help ensure stability in some of New projects and those already well underway, will
thereby creating advocates in the community.
capabilities. It is important that recruiting, assisted by the
the world’s most volatile areas, facilitating aid efforts, modernise the NZDF and our capabilities in the future -
Q 10
How long have you been doing this job and what is your
background?
I’ve been in this job since May 2005 and my background
whole RNZAF, makes every effort to continue placing the
RNZAF on the first choice set for people seeking to start
or change their career.
monitoring disarmament and assisting in the reconstruction
of schools and other important institutions. Our ability
to engage with the local people overseas has been
consistently noted and I am very proud of what NZDF
but these will not happen overnight. As I congratulate you
on a job well done, I also want to take the opportunity as
we enter the festive season to wish you and your families
a very meryy Christmas and a fruitful new Year.
11
AFN77 DECEMBER 06
www.airforce.mil.nz

12
ENGINE HEALTH
MONITORING
- A Beginner ’s Guide
SQNLDR Hugh Graham
Military aircraft engines eat money
and drink fuel like Homer Simpson on
doughnuts and beer. For some fast jets, for
example, the engines eat 50 percent of the
annual aircraft support budget. With some
minor exceptions, the engine is a top cause
of aircraft technical problems – almost
as dependable as the soft furnishings
and in-flight entertainment system on the
Hercules.
But it doesn’t have to be that way. Some
commercial aircraft have engines installed
for 15-20 years and average ½ million
flying hours between in-flight shut downs
(the General Electric engine on the Boeing
777). Indeed, some industrial gas turbines
have run continuously for decades only to
be stopped to find out why they haven’t
stopped. So why do military aircraft have
a problem?
Changing speed. One reason cars
do not have gas turbine engines is because
turbines do not like to change speed. Short
journeys, stop-start traffic, windy country
roads are bad for their health.
Trade life for performance.
Performance can be traded for life and vice
versa. The harder you work an engine, the
shorter the life – a 10 degree increase in
turbine temperature reduces blade life by
50%. In fact, one reason the
Seasprite engine is so reliable
is that it can deliver much
more than we demand – but
don’t tell the aircrew.
Use it or lose it. Like
most of us, aircraft engines
like to be warm, dry and well lubricated.
The best way to achieve that is to keep
flying.
We don’t listen. The engine tells us
about problems before they happen – we
just don’t listen. This is where Engine
Health Monitoring (EHM) helps.
Engine Health Monitoring –
The Basics
It may be helpful to explain a few of the
EHM terms.
Condition: The state of an engine, or a
body, with regard to illness, injury, fitness,
strength and good looks.
Condition Monitoring – checking
the symptoms: We cough, bleed, limp,
shake and belch (smoke, see B52 photo),
pass or fail the run test and do the Taupo
Cycle Challenge in 6 hours. All indicators
of our fitness and condition. The same
applies to aircraft engines. We can check
performance, spin speed, temperature,
pressure, oil consumption, vibration etc,
looking for the symptoms of failure.
Usage: Engine usage is like our
lifestyle.
Usage Monitoring: Lifestyle affects
your health. To make a diagnosis, a doctor
could ask where you go, who you meet,
how much alcohol you drink, cigarettes
you smoke, doughnuts you eat, exercise
you take and the pressures and stresses
of life. We also need to know how the
aircraft is used – how many and how long
are the flights, how high and fast and steep
the climbs, where it lands and parks, what
fuel, how heavy the load and the pilot (his
name, not his weight).
Health: A whole picture of your wellbeing
can be obtained from checking the
symptoms of illness and understanding
your lifestyle. ‘Health Monitoring’ then
is the term used for all of the above as a
package of activity.
So what will EHM do for RNZAF
aircraft?
Once upon a time, when a military was
grounded it saved a fortune – mainly on
aircrew rations. Today, however, we need
to do much more with our aircraft with not
a lot of money. For aircraft engines, the
traditional military philosophy was “if she
turns and burns she’ll do a trip”. Therefore,
reliability was the average time between
being wrong and then being wrong again.
However, if we monitor engine health
and can predict useful life, then we can
make engineering and operational plans
with confidence - ultimately, we want no
surprises.
EHM in the RNZAF
Most air forces have only tinkered with
engine health monitoring – watching oil
consumption, visually checking small areas,
counting flights but not really knowing what
happens. But things are changing, aircraft
are being upgraded, new aircraft bought,
performance data will soon flow like water
and clever computers will help assemble a
health picture for each aircraft.
EHM Working Groups
for every engine
In June 2006 the RNZAF started a series of
EHM Working Groups with staff from:
Directorate of Aeronautical Engineering
(DAE) - responsible for EHM policy and
programme development.
Directorate of Aircraft Configuration
(DAC) - contributing to EHM programme
development and managing the
introduction of EHM methods.
Defence Technology Agency (DTA)
- providing scientific advice and guidance
on monitoring techniques.
The Group will concentrate on each
engine type in turn for 6 months - but stay
active throughout the life the aircraft. The
first target is the RB211 engine on the
Boeing 757 followed by the T56, on the
Hercules and Orion, and the T700 on the
Seasprite.
The Working Group will step through
a number of task to develop each EHM
AFN77 DECEMBER 06
www.airforce.mil.nz
Antarctica. Not a good place to have engine troubles.
programme:
Task 1: Identify The Need. The
purpose of any monitoring activity is to
help diagnose a fault and provide a failure
warning. Therefore, understanding engine
faults will help target the monitoring efforts.
For example, if engines are vulnerable
to surge (like a very bad cough), then
we should gather data that warns us of
impending surge events. For this task the
reliability report provided by AMPU are
important.
Task 2: Exploit Available Data.
Assess the significance of existing data and
identify the best analysis methods. For
the RB211 we have downloaded some
snapshots of the engine performance from
the Flight Data Recorder (‘Black Box’).
However, we now know that we need extra
data from different stages of flight. In fact,
we really need full download from the Flight
Data Recorder after every flight, but that may
not be as simple as we first thought.
AFN77 DECEMBER 06 www.airforce.mil.nz
Task 3: Exploit Existing Capability.
What engine health data can we acquire
using the technical skills, knowledge and
equipment we already have within the
RNZAF and DTA? For example, should
we analyse more of the wear debris in the
oil? Or if we can we assemble a ‘vibration
library’ for good engines, then it may be
possible to build an automatic ‘spot-anengine-going-bad’
programme.
Task 4: Future Capability.
Review the data-gathering capability
offered by new or upgraded aircraft
(such as the NH90 helicopter and the
P3K-2 Orion), commercially available
monitoring techniques and new scientific
understanding.
Task 5: Introduction to Service.
Publicising the programme, arrange
training, write procedures, buy new
equipment etc.
Task 6: In Service Support. Inservice
EHM system management will be
Aircraft ‘Lifestyle’ illustrating
landing, parking and
workload issues.
DTA’s top scientist helps the RNZAF with the
RB211 EHM programme.
the direct responsibility of the Technical
Support cells within Directorate of Aircraft
Configuration (DAC). However, the Group
will continue to meet regularly to analyze
the success of the programmes and look
at new methods and equipment.
The RNZAF cannot afford unpleasant and
expensive surprises when operating and
fixing aircraft engines. Knowing that an
engine is serviceable is not enough. We
want to know how serviceable - how far
can we go, how many flights do we have,
can we trust it, is it safe? The technology
now exists to gather and manipulate all the
data an aircraft can throw at us. The EHM
Working Group has formed, focused on
the RB211; the TS Boeing cell has employed
an engine specialist from Air New Zealand;
the new TS Propulsion cell will monitor
engine performance using Rolls-Royce
software and DTA have their best brains on
our side. But this is just the start. And the
T56 is next. Watch this space.
13

14
C O R E P O R T S C O R E P O R T S
AIR COMPONENT COMMANDER
AIRCDRE PETER STOCKWELL
2006 has been yet another busy one for
the RNZAF’s operational units, and this in
turn has required significant support from
all other areas of the RNZAF. The major
activities have included the full range of
airlift support to operations and exercises
by No 40 Squadron; the development of
a Night Vision Goggle (NVG) capability
on No. 6 Squadron and normal ship
deployments; the successful conduct of the
first landing by a P-3 Orion at McMurdo;
the completion of three key aircraft
electronic surveillance system upgrades
for No. 5 Squadron; and the celebration
of 40 years of Huey operations by No.
3 Squadron. The Operational Support
Squadron has also had a busy year
supporting a wide variety of operations
and conducting CMS training. And we
should not forget the efforts of OSMU,
PTSU and the APDC for their dedication
and energy in completing their tasks.
While the operational tempo may not
have been as high as recent years in terms
of overseas deployments, coming on top
of our normal range of training and other
support activities, and the work associated
with the Major Capital Equipment projects,
it is still a significant achievement that so
much has been accomplished. Yet again
you have all demonstrated great teamwork
and professionalism.
Looking ahead, 2007 will be another
challenging year. I would like to thank
the whole RNZAF team (including our
dependants because they are part of the
team) because it is only through the efforts
of all team members that we can deliver
the outputs expected. My best wishes to
you all for a relaxing, safe and enjoyable
Christmas break – you deserve it.
CO NO.40 SQUADRON
WGCDR TONY DAVIES
No. 40 Squadron enjoyed a quick break
at the start of the year before gaining
full stride with provision of air transport
support to NZDF units around the globe,
and to a multitude of other events.
Some of these included visits by the
Prime Minister of Singapore and Vice
President of South Africa; involvement with
the Funeral of the King of Tonga; FANC
Exchange; ADF Ex Reflex; Ex Tasman
Protector; Ex Tasmanex; Op Rata; Tasman
Reserve; PTSU trials for new RNZAF
parachutes; Op Crib; Southern Reach;
Pekapeka; Skytrain; Pacific Protector;
Croix Du Sud; TG Teal; Maple Flag;
AATTC; East Timor; ANZAC Exchange;
Niue generator delivery; MFAT; Neptune
Warrior; Fincastle; British Army to Calgary;
CSC to New Caledonia and China; Taihai
Tombak; Kiwi Spirit; Kerpimpinen; Bersma
Padu; air shows at Ohakea, Wanaka, and
Tauranga; air shows at RAF Kemble and
RAF Waddington in the UK; and Op Union
Jack supporting the unveiling of the New
Zealand Memorial in Hyde Park.
This ‘routine’ year saw 40 Squadron aircraft
touch down 2574 times in over 30 different
countries. In the process, over 9.5 million
kgs of fuel propelled our aircraft more than
a million nautical miles (to the moon and
back twice), and used 98 aircraft tyres. This
rate of effort had the crews, maintenance
and supporting units working hard to ensure
timely and efficient mission completion.
Equally, the support and understanding from
families and friends was immensely important
and hugely appreciated.
We thank all those who played a part in
making it successful and enjoyable. We
look forward to the Christmas break and
another exciting, changeable, and fast
paced ‘routine’ year…
CO NO.5 SQUADRON
WGCDR LOGAN CUDBY
2006 has seen the start of the mix of
operations-normal plus the new work of
introduction into service that will become the
norm for Air Force over the next few years as
Force Elements go through upgrades.
Normal operations saw the Squadron fly
47 domestic patrols - mainly in support of
NZ Fisheries and Customs requirements
- and a further 270 hours of surveillance
in support of our Pacific neighbours.
Crews deployed to six international military
exercises in Australia, South East Asia and
the United Kingdom. A total of 114 hours
were flown over five Search and Rescue
Operations. The Squadron also conducted
three Bombing Weeks, a critical part of
exercising our weapons system chain.
WGCDR John Lovatt completed a successful
five years as Operations Flight Commander
and CO in September. SQNLDR Lampen-
Smith and FLTLT Cooper were awarded
Green Endorsements and FLTLT Bacon and
SGTs Skeggs and Allen Well Dones.
This year the Squadron began boosting
crew numbers to six operational crews. 19
students undertook the Aircrew Operational
Conversion Course, including pilots, flight
engineers, navigators, AEOPs and Air
Ordnancemen. Hopefully next year will
see a similar number. The extra crews will
meet the higher expected flying rate of the
upgraded P-3K2 Orion from 2010.
New developments include the
introduction of a significant step up in the
Squadron’s Electro-Optics capability and
the growth of the Intelligence Section. The
two are inter-related as we move towards
a more capable land and maritime
surveillance capability.
On behalf of No.5 Squadron I thank all
Base Auckland personnel and the wider
RNZAF for their support through the year.
AFN77 DECEMBER 06 www.airforce.mil.nz
CO OPERATIONAL SUPPORT SQUADRON
WGCDR LEANNE WOON
2006 has been another challenging and
rewarding year for the OSS in delivering static
and deployed expeditionary support to the
RNZAF Force Elements. Although small in
number, our support is critical to the success of
operations. OSS personnel, have supported
operations across the world ranging from
Antarctica to South Pacific Islands and the
Middle East, as well as supporting to OP Union
Jack, to name a few.
We have continued to train in our primary
roles including the delivery of Core Military
Skills, Air Movements, Deployable Bulk Fuel
and CIS specialist training. This training has
enabled OSS to further develop and deliver
the RNZAF expeditionary capability. We have
also expanded/upgraded our capabilities
over the past year to include:
The introduction of five LOVs for CIS;
Introduction of Sig Sauer pistol on CMS
training;
Procurement of three Deployable Bulk
Fuel Testing Laboratories;
Establishment of two Logistics positions
in the OSS HQ;
Establishment of Project Officer Health
Support Services to determine Expeditionary
Health Support required.
The team welcomed WGCDR Tony Millsom
as CO (wef 25 Nov 06). 2007 will be an
opportunity to consolidate further whilst at the
same time we commence planning for the
future capabilities being introduced into NZDF
to investigate how we can provide expeditionary
support to these new platforms.
I wish to thank the people of OSS, and all
those who have supported us, in successfully
delivering expeditionary support capability.
Have a relaxing and enjoyable Christmas
break - we have all earned it.
AFN77 DECEMBER 06
www.airforce.mil.nz
CO NO. 3 SQUADRON
WGCDR IAN MACPHERSON
For No. 3 Squadron 2006 was another
challenging year of consolidation and
rebuilding capability, much like 2005.
The rate of flying has been ambitious but
necessary to bring all aircrew back up to
Directed Level Of Capability (DLOC).
Operationally No. 3 Squadron is
meeting its outputs, providing regular
support to the NZ Army, NZ Police, the
Department of Conservation, and others.
Exercises in support of DLOC generation
included: Ex Pekapeka (our night flying
exercise), based out of Waiouru and
Lake Manapouri; Croix du Sud in New
Caledonia, and two Blackbird (mountain
flying) exercises over the winter months.
We also planned on attending the
Australian Ex Swift Eagle late in the year,
but it was cancelled. The void left by Swift
Eagle is filled, in part, by Ex Steel Talon
in November, and a planned Ex Tropic in
mid 2007 - TBA on the location!
Looking forward to next year we hope to
increase our support to the NZ Army and
maintain our current path of continuous
improvement. The challenges ahead with
the introduction of new aircraft and the
construction projects on Base Ohakea
are already affecting resources and
priorities, but who would want it any other
way. The future looks bright!
As Christmas approaches I wish to
thank all personnel, and your families,
who have worked on, or supported No.3
Squadron over this past year. We wish
you all an enjoyable and well deserved
summer holiday.
CO MAINTENANCE WING
WGCDR PETE GRIFFIN
When I included the Billy Connolly’s quip
‘and be prepared because it’s all going to
change!’ in my report a year ago I couldn’t
have been more prophetic. Maintenance
Wing morphed out of Logistics Wing
as a result of the Fleet Management
Review. Our Suppliers moved into the
new Materiel Support Wing to have the
Supply Chain under one command. This
allowed Maintenance Wing to return to
engineering and maintenance as the
prime focus – can’t be a bad thing .
The year has been a flurry of activity with
operational support testing our flexibility and
resourcefulness; business changes heralded
under Batch Management then JEMS Go
Live with all the attendant upskilling, and the
inevitable churn of personnel movements,
have all kept us on our toes. Again it is
with immense pride that we can look back
and say ‘we shouldered it all and we gave
our best’. The RNZAF can hold its head
up proud and Maintenance Wing is a big
part of that pride.
Hopefully, you all enjoy the Xmas run up
and take a few days off to recharge and
come back afresh. I can’t foresee much
respite in the challenges ahead – if it were
easy someone else would do it! I hand
over command of Maintenance Wing to
WGCDR Allan Jenkinsen. I’m sure he will
be as impressed as I have been with the
standard in Maintenance Wing’s myriad
trades and positions.
Have a happy and safe Xmas/New Year.
Air Force News invited Squadron and Wing Commanding Officers to write a brief outline
of their 2006 activities and outlook for 2007.
CO REPORTS
15

16
C O R E P O R T S
CO AUCKLAND AIR BASE WING
WGCDR JOHN CUMMINGS
From an Air Base Wing perspective it is
difficult to single out any one event as
a highlight. I find it easier to reflect on
the year from a Base Auckland or wider
RNZAF perspective. This year we were
privileged to take custody of the RNZAF
Queens Colour at a small but significant
Parade to mark the Sovereign’s Birthday.
The Colour represents the Service and
Allegiance we avow to the Crown and
Country and as such we take this custody
as an Honour. A highlight for the Colour
party and other Base personnel was
involvement in the Armistice Day opening
of the Memorial in London.
The Base remains engaged with the
Auckland community in a variety of events
and activities. We continue to get very good
feedback from officials and the general
public on the professional way in which all
our personnel represent the RNZAF. I thank
all who have given of their personal time to
undertake these important duties.
Messes and clubs are busy and well
supported. The year’s sporting highlight
was the Officers triumph over the W/O &
SNCO’s mess in rugby. The Officers have
held the rugby trophy since 1960.
2007 will no doubt see more of a busy
operational tempo for the RNZAF and the
Base team supporting the Force Elements.
Areas of the Base are showing their age,
but I am confident the Base will continue
to support Air Operations for a number
of years. In preparation for the arrival
of the upgraded aircraft I expect to see
some small infrastructural development to
support the expanded capabilities. What a
great time to be part of team RNZAF.
CO GROUND TRAINING WING
WGCDR ANDREW ROBERTSON
Ground Training Wing has had another
steady year focusing on ground based training
outputs for the RNZAF. CRTS has continued
on with the delivery of initial basic military
training and while the direct entrant intake for
the Recruit and Initial Officer Training Courses
has been quite variable this year, the training
schedule has continued unabated. As further
DSI funding is released into the personnel
budget to grow our Air Force, we look forward
to seeing direct entry intake numbers returning
to greater levels in future.
Perhaps the most significant training
outcome this year has been the delivery
of the outcomes of the NCO Training
Project. Significant credit is due to the team
at TDHQ and all those on the workforce
who contributed to the outcomes of this
project. The work of the NCO Training
Flight to then bring the theory of the new
courses into reality has been exceptional. It
has been great to receive so much positive
feedback about what has been achieved.
In 2007, GTW’s focus will continue to
be on achieving the outcomes specified
in the RNZAF Strategic Goal 2.1.2, that is
achieving a greater than 90% graduation
rate across all courses. We are not too far
off the mark, but more work is required with
some courses. Certainly the Recruit Course
and Avionics Primary Trade Training are two
areas where the training outcomes have
room for improvement. To address this,
the staff at ETS and CRTS will continue to
explore fresh initiatives to enhance training
outcomes. Initiatives such as the Training
Aid Review Project will also improve technical
trade training outcomes by delivering training
aids that are better matched with a modern
Air Force and a multi generational learning
environment.
CO AIR BASE WING WOODBOURNE
WGCDR DAVE GREEN
The plan for Air Base Wing Woodbourne
for 2006 was simple – get involved with
the rest of the New Zealand Defence Force
- remind them that we are here as part of
the Royal New Zealand Air Force. With
that in mind everyone was mandated to
attract attention to the Base. Woodbourne
is often described as a ‘training Base’. It
is no such thing. Woodbourne is a military
establishment that supports whatever
activity is necessary, in exactly the same way
as Ohakea and Auckland do. At present
this activity is training. Tomorrow it might
be something else. As a Base we need to
deliver the services that are needed. We
can be well satisfied that we have made
significant progress and that we have the
foundations in place for the next stage of
RNZAF development.
2006 has been a busy year. We have
changed a lot of key personnel and
supported several significant NZDF
exercises as well as NZDF and single
Service conferences and forums. We
formed (or re-formed) a Base Operations
Squadron and opened the airfield for
B757 operations. We made considerable
advances in our relationship with local
government and we got Core Military
Skills training up and running on Base.
All of this is only achieved with everyone’s
concentrated effort.
2007 will be an opportunity to consolidate
many of the gains we have made and
ensure we are fully aligned with the
RNZAF Strategic Plan and direction. We
will celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the
granting of the Charter and we need to
think about what this event will look like.
We also welcome No. 27 Sqn (Blenheim)
Air Training Corps onto Base early in the
year. We need to ensure that we all take
time out now and again to have some
fun.
JUST A MO’: Ranging from the sparse to Mega-mo Merv Hughes/Tom Selleck look alikes.
No.5 Squadron’s men rose to the challenge of last month’s
Movember promotion by organising a group ‘Mo-grow’. Men
are notoriously squeemish when it comes to health issues so
the Movember promotion, initiated by the Prostate Cancer
Foundation of New Zealand, was aimed at raising awareness
of men’s health and prostate cancer. Men were encouraged to
grow a sponsored moustache for the month.
‘In the true spirit of Air Force camaraderie and espirit de corp,
about 80 No.5 Squadron men gave up their upper lip nudity, and
any chance of looking good, in the name of prostate cancer,’
said FLTLT Aaron Rogers. The entry fee was $5 and many were
fined heavily for giving-in to Home Command and opting for
an early shave, he said. The Squadron raised over $600 for the
worthy cause. Men at other NZDF Bases and camps joined in
the mo-growing effort.
AFN77 DECEMBER 06 www.airforce.mil.nz
AFN77 DECEMBER 06 www.airforce.mil.nz
A MO-MENTOUS EFFORT
Presenting the Badges were: CAPT Russell Skeet (PRO 6 Hau Reg), PO Shane Berry
(Navy), LT Johnny Swain (Navy) and SGT Joe Stapleton (RNZAF).
A new plaque celebrating the year of the veteran at the Paeroa RSA was unveiled by
Mayor J.P. Tregidga and MP Sandra Goudie (centre).
Movember Winners: L-R CAPT Andy Warden , FGOFF Ron Hunt, F/S
Craig Pitman and SQNLDR Glenn Davis.
YEAR OF
THE VETERAN
A Year of the Veteran badge presentation to about 50 local
members of the Paeroa RSA was held on 29 October at the War
Memorial Hall, Paeroa. Below, SGT Joe Stapleton pins a badge
to NZ435558 Selwyn George Wood (RNZAF) WWII.
17

AK 06-0549-01 PHOTOS BY AC LOUISA GRANT
AFN77 DECEMBER 06 www.airforce.mil.nz
FIRST STEPS TO OVERLAND PATROLS
No.5 Squadron aircrew and Army LAV personnel in front of a P-3K Orion and two LAVs.
FGOFF Karina Chipman
No. 5 Squadron, 1RNZIR and TG 6
took the first steps towards developing
the P-3K’s new Enhanced Early Electro-
Optics (E3O) (electro-optics) as a Joint
capability for use in overland operations.
The first trial flights with 1RNZIR Light
Armoured Vehicles (LAVs) from Linton,
and TG 6 were conducted in conjunction
with a 1RNZIR shoot on 13th and 14th
November at Kaipara weapons range.
The trial flights, carried out over two days,
included tracking a LAV/LOV convoy and
observing the stationary LAVs in different
configurations, including a weapons shoot
and various forms of camouflage. Air
riders were taken on the flights to help with
communications and offer tactical advice.
A face-to-face debrief was conducted
which was a great success, and also a
chance for No.5 Squadron members to
climb all through the LAVs, and for the
AFN77 DECEMBER 06 www.airforce.mil.nz
LAV operators to explore the P-3K, so all
involved could get a better appreciation
of each other’s kit.
With the first of the stepping stones
laid, No.5 Squadron is looking forward
to developing the potential of the MX-20
EO equipment, and the chances No.5
Squadron will get when we go live and
start developing a Joint overland capability
to support Land Forces.
TONGAN CAPITAL CALM AND SECURE
LEFT: WGCDR Woon leads the team for the last
time.
BELOW LEFT: Air Dog Sag hadn’t heard of the
no lying down on parade rule.
BELOW: WGCDR Woon shares a joke with
Reports from the New Zealand-led task force confirm that the
personnel on parade.
situation in Nuku’alofa appears calm at present. The Combined
Joint Task Force remains in a security role at Fau’amotu Airport.
New Zealand and Australian soldiers are providing relief to
elements of the Tongan Defence Service in the central city, who
have been on continuous duty for sometime, enabling them to
get much needed rest and recovery.
‘The situation appears to be returning to normal,’ said Task
Force Commander, LT COL Darren Beck. ‘The task force remains
focused on supporting the Tongan authorities.’
The 72 NZDF personnel in theatre are predominantly from 2/1st
Battalion, based at Linton. The deployed force includes infantry
soldiers, a Headquarters command element, medical team and
18 Air Load personnel to operate at the airport.
CPL Johno Green checks out the damage after the riots.
19
AK 06-0549-20
AIR FORCE EQUITY UPDATE
SQNLDR Clayton Willocks
Much has been going on behind the
scenes in relation to equity and diversity in
the NZDF, and indeed the Air Force. As
the Assistant Director of Personnel Policy, I
am also the Air Force Equal Employment
Opportunity Coordinator. The key equity
issues currently under action are:
Discrimination, Harassment and
Bullying (DHB): A recent minute
signed by the CAF was widely promulgated
reinforcing that reporting DHB incidents
is the responsibility of everyone. The Air
Force has witnessed a significant increase
in reported incidents over recent months,
particularly in relation to bullying. This
sharp increase is a concern, however, it
is almost certainly as a result of underreporting
in previous periods as opposed
to a sharp spike in bullying behaviour over
recent months. Accurate reporting of DHB
incidents via the form MD1037 provides
the Air Force with an important measure
of our health and discipline. The CAF has
made it very clear – there is no place for
DHB in the Air Force!
NZDF Equity and Diversity Strategy:
Soon the NZDF will launch a new Equity
and Diversity Strategy. The Strategy is
intended to progress the NZDF beyond a
‘compliance’ approach to equity towards a
more ‘inclusiveness’ approach, embedding
equity and diversity into normal every-day
management practice – or ‘how we do
things around here’. The draft goals of
the Strategy are:
Leaders are accountable for managing
and driving diversity;
Positioning the NZDF for a diverse
workforce;
Integration and embedding of equity;
Enhancement of an inclusive, healthy
and safe working environment;
Monitoring and assessment of equity
related policies and practices.
Employment and Management
of Pregnant Women in the NZDF:
This DFO is currently under consultation
with single Services. It will define the
principles that are to form the foundation
of pregnancy management within the
NZDF for military and civilian personnel,
AK 06-0549-12
particularly those employed in hazardous
workplaces. The DFO will provide a
clear direction for the implementation of
these principles to ensure appropriate
management of pregnant personnel. It will
prove to be an excellent reference for the
key stakeholders – the pregnant individual,
command and medical staff.
Air Force Equity Website: The Air
Force Equity Website contains a wealth of
interesting and relevant equity information,
as well as links to other useful intranet sites.
Some of the information contained on the
website includes:
A list of trained Anti-Harassment
Advisors (updated daily);
Useful bullying and harassment
information and presentations;
Relevant NZDF equity related reports;
An electronic MD1037;
NZDF equity policy references;
Other general equity related
information and resources.
The site, located at RNZAF Corporate –
Personnel – EEO Home Page, is continuously
updated with new information.
OSS CHANGE
OF COMMAND
At a ceremony on 25 November CO of
Operational Support Squadron WGCDR
Leanne Woon handed over command to
WGCDR Anthony Millsom. WGCDR Woon
is now posted to Texas as the P-3K2 Project
Logistics Officer.
E L E C T R O - O P T I C S
AK 06-0516-01 AC LOUISA GRANT
WN 06-0338-01 NO.5 SQUADRON
AK 06-0525-41 SGT CARL BOOTY

A F G H A N NII S T A N
AFGHAN DRUGS GO UP IN SMOKE
Dealing with the unexpected has become
fairly standard for members of the NZ
Provincial Reconstruction Team (PRT) in
Bamyan. But a request at 10.00 am on 01
November from the Provincial Governor of
Bamyan, Governor Sarabi, to destroy over
a tonne of raw opium was one of the more
unusual tasks carried out since the current
contingent arrived in Afghanistan.
The opium haul was confiscated after
intelligence indicated that a group
under surveillance were moving from
neighbouring Samangahn Province into
Bamyan. A team of Afghan National
Police, only recently trained up by the
Bamyan-based New Zealand Military and
Police, were dispatched to intercept them.
Three smugglers were intercepted along a
deserted road in the remote Yakawalang
District.
Superintendent John Kelly had recently
arrived in Afghanistan to take up his role
of mentor to the Afghan National Police
when the opium was discovered. The
30-year police veteran from Hamilton was
somewhat taken aback by the quantity.
‘It’s certainly the biggest haul I’ve seen in
my career and is a bit different from the
average couple of pounds of cannabis you
might turn over back home.’
With 4kg of opium sufficient to produce
a kilo of heroin, the haul had a potential
value of $US18 million. It represents a
significant volume given that the average
annual seizure in Afghanistan is 400
tonnes. Afghanistan is the world’s biggest
supplier of opium with the country’s
southern Helmand Province producing over
70 per cent of the world’s total production
alone. The annual profit from opium of
$US1.3 billion plays a significant part in
the funding of the ongoing Taliban and
Al Qaeda insurgency currently afflicting
Afghanistan.
The NZPRT Environmental Medicine
Team, under SGT Nick Bunker, was tasked
to destroy the drugs. With help from the
Regimental Aid Post and the Petroleum
Operator, LCPL Chantelle Locke built a
tier structure of wooden pallets, coated
with opium and liberally doused in fuel.
The burn attracted interest from local
dignitaries including Governor Sarabi,
COL Namatullah, the Head of Narcotics
in Bamyan, and COL Rahman the Deputy
Chief of Police. With dignitaries and
SGT N. Bunker, LCPL C. Locke, SSGT T. Laing and MAJ P. Misur preparing the opium for burning.
UP IN SMOKE: L-R: SGT Bunker, MAJ Misur, LCPL Locke, SSGT Laing with burning pit in background.
FAIR COPS: Inspector Soepnel, Deputy
Chief of Police Bamyan COL Rahman and
Superintendent Kelly.
PRT personnel looking on the entire
consignment of drugs was incinerated.
‘The raw opium is a dark brown substance
ranging in consistency from solid blocks to
an easily poured liquid. Working in the
WN 06-0315-??
burn pit surrounded by hundreds of millions
of dollars worth of foul smelling opium,
mixed with plenty of diesel and petrol, is an
experience I’ll never forget,’ said Major Phil
Misur, the NZPRT Medical Officer.
Senior National Officer GPCAPT Kevin
Short added: ‘while counter narcotics is
not a core task, the PRT was able to make
a valuable contribution in providing a
secure venue and expertise to ensure the
disposal was completed in a controlled and
transparent manner.’
Although out of the ordinary, the task
is just another example of the NZPRT
continuing to assist the local government
to provide a more secure environment for
the people of Bamyan and Afghanistan
as a whole.
WN 06-0315-05
WN 06-0315-??
BAMYAN: AN SNO’s PERSPECTIVE
GPCAPT Kevin Short
On 23rd October the incoming and
outgoing New Zealand Provincial
Reconstruction Teams (NZ PRT) held
the official Transition of Authority (TOA)
ceremony, handing over PRT command
from CAPT Ross Smith (RNZN) to myself.
This parade included personnel from
NZPRT 8 and 9, NZ Police and the US. The
parade was also attended by a number of
VIPs including Provincial Governor Sarabi
and COL Schlatter, Commander Task
Force Tiger, which controls operations in
Northern Afghanistan including Bamyan
Province.
As I reflect on the ceremony it reminds me
of how patient we need to be throughout
our tour in Afghanistan. In an immediate
sense we, as a contingent, have to be
particularly tolerant over the harsh winter
period, and that winter will be upon us
in a matter of weeks. The snow, ice and
extreme cold will make routine activities
difficult, and some of the mountain
passes, similar in height to Mt Cook, will
be impassable cutting off areas of the
Bamyan Province. With limited access,
achieving all of our objectives will be a
challenge. In fact our winter rotation has
fewer personnel as an acknowledgement
of these winter conditions.
I have waited patiently for three months
to take command of the PRT. I left the
position of OC 485 Wing specifically to
prepare for this Command on 21 Jul 06!
In those three months I completed a four
day PDT, did a Command Reconnaissance
to Afghanistan, attended a Navy/Air Land
Ops Training Week, completed a five week
Contingent PDT, took a few weeks leave,
and finally finished with a five day handover
here at Kiwi Base. Patience is required to
get through all those hoops of preparatory
work, but finally I’m here.
I said in my speech at the TOA ceremony
that I am both honoured and pleased to
have command of the 108 strong PRT 9
Team in Afghanistan. I first asked for this
command three years ago when New
Zealand made the first commitment to
a PRT in Bamyan Province. Since then
we have had nine contingent rotations,
with over 1000 NZDF personnel having
served in the NZPRT. That does not of
course include the number of support
staff and other NZDF personnel working
GPCAPT Short during the powhiri to welcome NZPRT 9.
CAPT Smith (right) and GPCAPT Short during the
Transition of Authority (TOA).
The snow, ice and
extreme cold will
make routine activities
difficult and some of the
mountain passes, similar
in height to Mt Cook,
will be impassable...
in other areas of Afghanistan and the
personnel who support PDT and who work
in the various Headquarters to sustain the
mission.
I was previously in Afghanistan for six
months in 2002 as part of Operation
Enduring Freedom. That was when I
WN 06-0310-02
A F G H A N I S T A N
learnt about Afghanistan and its history.
At that time I celebrated my 25th wedding
anniversary. Now, five years later I will
celebrate my 30th wedding anniversary,
working in Bamyan Province, Afghanistan.
It is an interesting measure of progress and
timelines within Afghanistan.
As a professional military officer, I have
learnt that we - the military - are very good
at completing tasks and getting the results
we want. However, I have also learnt that
those results can take time, and at times
those results can take years. I think my time
here in Afghanistan will reflect those long
timeframes, and that what we achieve over
the next six months may only bear fruit well
after we depart. This may be as good as we
can expect. So we will have to be patient.
Nonetheless, on any measure the NZ
PRT has been a resounding success. The
aim remains the same as it always has, to
promote security, assist in nation building,
help the distribution of aid, and construction
of new infrastructure. I stated to the VIPs at
the TOA ceremony that all of us here today
have worked hard to improve the situation
and conditions in Bamyan. There has
been a slow but positive improvement in
all areas, throughout Afghanistan. I asked
that they too be patient and the rewards will
continue to come over the years ahead.
Right now I am chuffed to have finally
taken command – it is a delightful feeling
of responsibility.
I am honoured. My patience has been
rewarded.
20 21
AFN77 DECEMBER 06 www.airforce.mil.nz
AFN77 DECEMBER 06 www.airforce.mil.nz
WN 06-0310-01

22
‘Tis the Season to be Jolly
FLTLT Lara Blackmore
Well it’s crept up fast but it is already
that time of year again. The nights
are longer, the days warmer and
with Christmas upon us it’s a
time of relaxation, reflection and
celebration. At this time of year
we all love to have fun and indulge
in our favourite foods and drinks
and while some people can get
away with this the majority of us
cannot and the result is a few more
inches on the waistline followed by
a New Years resolution to go on a
slimming diet.
HEALTHY EATING AND SENSIBLE
CELEBRATING DURING THE HOLIDAYS
AFN77 DECEMBER 06 www.airforce.mil.nz
Indulging in our Favourite Foods at
Christmas
Given that less than 10% seem to stick to their New
Years weight loss resolution I will offer some realistic tips
on eating, drinking and socialising during the holiday
season. My number one piece of advice is to enjoy all
those delicious foods but to apply these tips and come
out the other side feeling great.
Enjoy the turkey and ham as they are great low-fat
meats but remove the skin and visible fat when eating.
Cook roast vegetables but spray, rather than douse,
them in oil and cook separately from the meats.
Alternatively wrap in foil and cook on the BBQ.
For snacks before the big meals offer lots of yummy
Christmas fruits, lower fat cheeses like Brie and
Camembert along with some tasty breads.
Fill up on the fruit – fresh berry fruit on Pavlova, citrus
fruit kebabs, fruit punch drinks and fruit cocktails.
Remind yourself of how uncomfortable it feels to be
bloated after you have stuffed yourself full of food. It’s
better to pace yourself and enjoy a fantastic meal than
over indulge too much.
Try going for a post-meal family walk to blow out the
cobwebs or organise some healthy competition between
family members with a backyard game of cricket.
Don’t feel guilty about having treats at Christmas,
its only one day and you can always make up for it on
Boxing Day with a healthy meal of delicious salads and
leftover lean meats.
As this time of year is littered with barbeques I thought
Sensible Celebrating
Paired with fabulous food over the Christmas holidays
tends to be regular indulgence in a few drinks. Alcohol
is a poor source of nutrition as it contains few vitamins,
minerals and protein with a whole lot of sugar, so not
only do we need to monitor alcohol intake from a safe
drinking perspective we also need to be aware of its
contribution to our total energy intake. By following a
few safe drinking guidelines we should be able to avoid
the negative effects of excess alcohol. Remember that
there is no level of drinking that is safe for all people all
of the time; factors like health, age, weight and gender
directly affect how much is safe for you to drink.
1. A standard drink contains 10g of alcohol. In general,
one standard drink can be found in a 330ml can of beer,
100ml of wine and 30ml of straight spirits. All alcohol
containers now have a standard drinks content on the
label.
2. ‘Safer drinking levels’:
Men: in any one week drink no more than 21
standard drinks and on any one occasion drink no more
than 6 standard drinks
Women: in any one week drink no more than 14
standard drinks and on any one occasion drink no more
than 4 standard drinks
These are general guidelines for protecting health,
AFN77 DECEMBER 06 www.airforce.mil.nz
that it would probably be a good idea to offer some
specific healthy barbequing advice as well:
A serving of meat should be the size of the palm of
your hand (not including fingers).
Avoid charred (black or burnt) meat as it may be
associated with an increased cancer risk.
Precooking sausages by boiling them in water helps
to remove some of the excess fat.
Fish wrapped in foil cooks quickly and there is no
cleaning up to do afterwards.
Zucchini, red and green peppers, whole mushrooms,
tomatoes and egg plant are all great on the BBQ – cut
into bite sized chunks, thread onto a skewer and BBQ
with a little olive oil.
Fresh corn can be boiled first then finished on the
BBQ.
Serve a selection of other foods with the meal including
salads and wholegrain breads.
Hand and hand with good eating is food safety, the four
Cs should give you a good indication on appropriate
food safety this summer:
Clean – always wash your hands and dry thoroughly
before handling food, after handling raw meat and
poultry, after going to the toilet or changing nappies,
after handling pets and after gardening.
Cook – defrost meat thoroughly before cooking so that
the centre of the food can be thoroughly cooked.
Cover – keep food covered as much as possible to
protect them from flies, birds and pests.
Chill – keep food in the fridge or chilly bin until just
prior to cooking or eating.
not for safe driving.
3. Have some alcohol free days each week.
4. Avoid binge drinking as this is one of the most
dangerous types of drinking. You cannot save up your
safe drinking allowance (outlined in point 2) to consume
all in one night without it having negative effects on your
safety and health.
5. When drinking alcohol eat some food as well, pace
yourself alternating alcoholic drinks with soft drinks and
chilled water. Have long drinks with lots of mixers (try
diet varieties to limit energy intake).
6. When drinking, stick together and look out for each
other.
7. Find an alternative way to get home rather than
driving. Plan how you and your mates are going to get
home before drinking. Designate a driver and buy them
non-alcoholic drinks or pay for petrol. Alternatively, put
some money aside for a taxi, perhaps in your shoe so
you are less likely to spend it. Walking home is not such
a good idea but if you do, walk with a friend.
8. If you do have an awful hangover the next day just
take it easy, have plenty of rest and drink lots of fluids to
re-hydrate yourself.
Wishing you all happy holidays. Relax and enjoy the
break, make wise choices, leave the car at home and
look after each other. See you all next year.
23

24
WN 06-0329-02
N I G H T V I S I O N G O G G L E S
NIGHT VISION
BRINGS A SUBSTANTIAL
CAPABILIT Y ENHANCEMENT
In an interview in February this year
(Air Force News 67, page 16) the
Commanding Officer of No.6 Squadron,
LT CDR Keith Gilchrist, spoke of the
introduction of a night-vision goggle
(NVG) capability for the Seasprite crews
as bringing a ‘substantial enhancement’
of the helicopter’s overall capability.
That enhancement is now an emerging
reality as the Squadron moves closer
toward the full introduction of an NVG
capability.
The NVGs, says Squadron Adjutant FLTLT
Roscoe Paterson, offer ‘enhanced safety
and reduced fatigue in low level and
embarked operations; are an additional
sensor for surface warfare and allow
an enhanced littoral warfare capability.’
Perhaps most importantly NVG offers ‘the
ability to provide force protection to a ship
at night, especially when coupled with a
capable weapon.’
Over the past year the Squadron has
been making the tentative, necessarily
careful steps to introduce the capability
starting in August 2005 with initial flight
trials, compatibility test flights and the
training of instructors. The first NVG
deck trial, including a trial of basic force
protection techniques, was held on the
Navy frigate Te Mana in December
2005.
By January 2006 the Squadron had
developed standard operating procedures
(SOPs) for NVGs.
In September 2006 a weeklong visit by
AFN77 DECEMBER 06
www.airforce.mil.nz
Royal Air Force NVG instructor Douglas
Vine was an excellent opportunity for
No.3 and No.6 Squadron crews to
learn the latest NVG techniques and
this led directly to the establishment of
No.6 Squadron’s first line NVG-trained
crew – LT Norman McDonald, LT Sam
Greenhalgh and SGT Chris Mitchell.
But there remains much to be done
before the Squadron can claim a full
NVG capability. Over the coming months
the Squadron will be working to enhance
AFN77 DECEMBER 06 www.airforce.mil.nz
ABOVE AND RIGHT: The
NVGs are fitted onto the
flying helmet and adjusted
individually.
LEFT: The NVGs won’t turn
night into day. In fact you
would be legally blind if
you had to view the world
this way all of the time.
Familiarising themselves with
NVG procedures in the cockpit
conversion pilot FLTLT Will
Neill and LT Darren Smith..
PHOTOS BY HELICOPTER
CREWMAN LEADER W/O
HCM DAVE MORGAN.
its NVG experience and qualifications.
This month the Te Mana-based crew will
undertake deck qualification when the
Squadron’s own NVGs are delivered
(previously the NVGs were ‘borrowed’
from No.3 Squadron). [Note: although
the estimated date of delivery is December
2006, this may not eventuate and when
they do arrive it may take a few months
to inspect, accept and capture the new
equipment. Until then No.6 Squadron will
continue to use No.3 Squadron’s NVGs,
whenever they can be spared.]
All going well, Te Mana will be the first
New Zealand Navy ship to sail with an
NVG capability when it leaves port in
January 2007. Meanwhile from February
to June 2007 the Te Kaha based No.6
Squadron crew will begin their NVG
training. During that time NVG training
will become an integral part of Seasprite
training with the dovetailing of NVG into
existing training manuals. SOP will also
be reviewed during that period.
When Te Kaha sails again in July 2007 it
N I G H T V I S I O N G O G G L E S
is expected it will carry an NVG capability
with a fully deck qualified crew aboard.
In addition all New Zealand ships
will need improved lighting to enhance
their ability to take NVG capable crews.
Existing lighting on the Navy’s ships is
not NVG friendly but trials with the AN/
AVS-9 Series NVG equipment proved
satisfactory.
NVGs don’t magically turn night into
day. Indeed the visual acuity achieved
with NVG would classify you as being
legally blind should it be your normal day
vision. As LT CDR Jason Haggitt, from
the Navy’s Training Section, observes:
‘NVG techniques are precise and
demanding and require a high degree
of interdependability amongst the crew
in order to supplement limited visual
clues.’ Nevertheless, the introduction of
a night vision capability for the Squadron
represents a substantial and welcome
enhancement to No.6 Squadron’s ability
to both protect our ships from attack and
to proactively seek out threats.
WN 06-0329-03
WN 06-0329-04
25

ALLY CLELLAND
M I L I T A R Y P A G E A N T
MILITARY
PAGEANTRY
ROCKS THE STADIUM
WELLINGTON’S WESTPAC STADIUM WAS ROCKED BY THE SOUND OF
SHELL FIRE AND FIREWORKS ON FRIDAY 3 NOVEMBER AS PART OF A
SPECTACULAR MUSICAL MILITARY PAGEANT HELD TO MARK THE YEAR
OF THE VETERAN AND THE 90TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE ROYAL NEW
ZEALAND RETURNED AND SERVICES’ ASSOCIATION (RNZRSA).
More than 800 performers took part in the Pageant
which included New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF)
bands, NZ Police Force bands, the City of Wellington
Pipe Band, Tawa and Districts Highland Pipe Band,
and Tawa College Choir.
One of the highlights of the evening was a simulated battle which
started with four soldiers rappelling down from an Iroquois helicopter
which hovered in the swirling winds over the pitch. Once the soldiers
were on the ground a battle ensued between two groups at opposite
ends of the pitch involving Light Armoured Vehicles (LAVs) and artillery
fire. The booming artillery fire reverberated around the Stadium with
fireworks and coloured smoke bombs adding to the effects.
Other highlights were an amusing performance by the New Zealand
Army Band, the Royal New Zealand Navy Band with its medley of Big
Band classics featuring an Elvis look-alike in a white cape, and a NZ
Police Dog display involving an exploding toilet.
There was plenty of time for reflection with a special salute to the
Year of the Veteran and the RNZRSA 90th anniversary which included
the moving song A Pittance of Time performed by blind Canadian
singer Terry Kelly.
Fireworks and artillery fire featured again as part of the 1812
Overture performed by the massed brass and military bands
accompanied by the Tawa College Choir.
The evening finale saw the massed bands and an NZDF Royal Guard
Of Honour accompany soloist Hinewehi Mohi performing Pokarekare
Ana and Now is the Hour.
OH 06-0605-73
OH 06-0605-67
ABOVE: Overall view of all the bands
and other participants at the Year of the
Veteran Military Pageant.
FAR LEFT: Always a crowd favourite. The
New Zealand Police dogs put on a display
for the crowd.
LEFT: Marching girls are as
quintessentially Kiwi as pavlova. And what
better place to strut their stuff. The Lochiel
Marching Group perform.
26
PHOTOS BY SGT TIM JORDAN AND
LAC LOREN MEHAFFY.
27
AFN77 DECEMBER 06
www.airforce.mil.nz
AFN77 DECEMBER 06
www.airforce.mil.nz
OH 06-0605-15

OH 06-0601-58
OH 06-0601-96
OH 06-0601-87
OH 06-0605-03
A RNZAF No.3 Squadron Iroquois drops in troops during a mock battle.
161 Battery Guns are fired during the performance of the 1812 Overture.
New Zealand Cadet Forces.
OH 06-0601-18
Veterans march through Wellington.
OH 06-0604-02
The Police Band struts its stuff.
A Guard of Honour welcomes Governor
General Mr Arnand Satyanand and CDF, LTGEN
Jerry Mateparae.
OH 06-0601-83
OH 06-0601-34
M I L I T A R Y P A G E A N T
Massed drummers of the Army and Air Force bands advance on the
LT CDR James Tayler lifts Porirua East’s Austin Minor into a No.6 Squadron
28 crowd
Seasprite’s drivers seat during the recruiting morning at the stadium.
In a grand finale fireworks burst over the stadium as the bands bring the 1812 overture to a close. 29
AFN77 DECEMBER 06 www.airforce.mil.nz
AFN77 DECEMBER 06 www.airforce.mil.nz
OH 06-0605-13

30
THE NZ MEMORIAL IN
LONDON
The New Zealand Memorial in London’s
Hyde Park was officially dedicated by Her
Majesty the Queen on what was a bitterly
cold Remembrance Day afternoon.
The Queen was greeted at the ceremony
by a 120-strong tri-Service NZDF Royal
Guard of Honour, lined up against
the memorial’s 16 towering bronze
standards.
Her Majesty inspected the Guard of
Honour accompanied by the Chief of
Defence Force, LT GEN Jerry Mateparae
and Guard Commander SQNLDR Nick
Olney.
The Queen told the audience that New
Zealanders had written themselves into
a special place in history books. ‘Many
of them for deeds of exceptional bravery
and sacrifice, but most of them for simply
giving their all in duty, in courage, and in
dogged determination to fight for peace
and freedom from tyranny.’
Her Majesty said the ‘Southern Stand’
Memorial – which she described as
‘striking’ – was built to remember men and
women of New Zealand and Britain who
shared the hardships of war, and those
who had died.
Her Majesty spoke of the strong and
enduring bonds between New Zealand
and Britain, and said it was a privilege to
be among so many New Zealand veterans,
whom she called friends.
The Prime Minister of New Zealand,
the Right Honourable Helen Clark, also
spoke at the ceremony. She said the
memorial project began with a desire to
commemorate the shared sacrifice of New
Zealanders and British people during war.
However, the project acquired a deeper
meaning, she said, as New Zealand’s
historical ties to Britain – stretching back
almost two-and-a-half centuries to Captain
James Cook’s first voyage of discovery,
and resulting in large migration between
Britain and New Zealand – explained why
New Zealand had made such great efforts
during the two world wars.The memorial
had become a ‘vehicle through which to
express, in this ancient land of Britain with
which we have so many ties, the unique
national identity of New Zealand,’ Ms Clark
said. ‘[The memorial] is about what New
Zealand has become in the 21st century,
so it’s past, present and future.’
British Prime Minister Tony Blair said the
link between the two nations was not just
historic. ‘The bonds of friendship between
our two countries remain as strong as ever.
Our peoples are close, they come and go
between our two countries as much as
ever; we invest in each others’ economies;
we share culture and sport – where friends
become rivals.’
The $3million memorial was designed by
architect John Hardwick-Smith and sculptor
AK 06-0480-02
AK 06-0480-33
ABOVE: The Queen’s Colour of the RNZAF,
paraded by FGOFF Simon Costello from
No.40 Squadron. This Colour was presented to
the RNZAF in 2004.
ABOVE RIGHT: Her majesty The Queen
accompanied by Guard Commander SQNLDR
Nick Olney and CDF LTGEN Jerry Mateparae.
RIGHT: Trumpeters from the NZDF band.
OPPOSITE PAGE:
TOP: The NZDF tri-Service Royal Guard in front
of Buckingham Palace.
BELOW LEFT: Standard 6 in the main group is
the Navy and Air Force standard. Bronze reliefs
include silhouettes of various aircraft and ships.
Paul Dibble, and was funded by the New
Zealand Government. It will share its site at
the north-east corner of Hyde Park Corner
with the Australian War Memorial, which
was dedicated in 2003.
Each of the 16 bronze standards is
adorned with text, patterns and small
sculptures, which reflect the military,
historical, social, cultural and economic
ties between the two countries. ‘Through
the words and images, any New Zealander
visiting the memorial will recognise home,
and British people may learn something of
the relationship between our two countries,’
explains Paul Dibble.
Over 250 New Zealand Defence Force
personnel joined veterans, members of the
Royal Family, dignitaries, and hundreds of
expatriate Kiwis for the 1½-hour autumn
event at Hyde Park Corner. This was the
largest group of Defence Force personnel
to deploy to the United Kingdom since the
coronation of Queen Elizabeth II.
The ceremony commenced in the early
afternoon of 11 November, Armistice Day,
when the Guard of Honour marched out
of Wellington Barracks. Over 60 New
Zealand and UK veterans joined the
march as it left Constitution Hill for Hyde
Park Corner. Flanked by the NZDF Maori
Culture Group, the marchers entered Hyde
Park to the sound of Maori Battalion, played
by the tri-Service band.
AFN77 DECEMBER 06 www.airforce.mil.nz AFN77 DECEMBER 06 www.airforce.mil.nz
AK 06-0480-92
AK 06-0480-22
Three Typhoons from RAF Base Conningby
joined one of the two RNZAF Boeing 757
aircraft that brought the contingent from
New Zealand in a spectacular flypast at
1,500ft above Hyde Park.
The moving kairanga and haka
performances from the London-based
Ngati Ranana and the NZDF Maori
Culture Group, and performances by Kiwi
musicians Hayley Westenra and Dave
Dobbyn, gave the ceremony a distinctly
New Zealand flavour.
Singer Dave Dobbyn performed a guitar
solo of Welcome Home and soprano
Hayley Westenra sung both countries’
national anthems.
Wearing warrior traditional dress and
carrying taiaha, the NZDF Maori Culture
Group performed a rousing yet chilling
version of Te Rauparaha’s most well-known
haka, made famous by the All Blacks.
The Last Post was played by the NZ Army
Band’s LCPL Colin Clark.
The New Zealand flag and the Union
Jack were hung at half mast when Chief
of Defence Force LT GEN Jerry Mateparae
cited the Ode to the Fallen in Maori, then
Royal New Zealand Returned and Services
Association (RNZRSA) President John
Campbell cited the Ode in English.
Among their audience was what was
described as an ‘exceptional turnout’
from the Royal Family, including His Royal
Highness the Duke of Edinburgh, their
Royal Highnesses the Prince of Wales and
Duchess of Cornwall; HRH Prince William;
HRH the Duke of York; HRH the Princess
Royal and HRH the Duke of Kent.
The event was also attended by wellknown
New Zealanders such as Andrew
Merhtens, Sean Fitzpatrick, Kerry Fox, David
Bedingfield and Lady Pippa Blake.
Security was tight at the ceremony, which
closed the busy central London intersection
to the public. The ceremony was encircled
by black-clad security guards, and antisniper
units could be seen on the roofs of
nearby buildings.
One-and-a-half thousand expatriate
New Zealanders turned up to the event
wrapped in their winter woollies – some
bearing Anzac biscuits – for the Saturday
afternoon ceremony, which ran from
3.00am until 4.15am on Sunday morning
New Zealand time.
The expatriates present said the ceremony
was moving, and something to be proud
of. One 26-year-old man described the
memorial as ‘our little piece of London’,
and said he was there to pay respects to
all New Zealanders who had seen war in
their lifetime.
More than 250,000 New Zealanders
have served with British forces during
the wars of the 20th Century. Thirty-two
veterans of joint New Zealand and British
31

32
campaigns, including World War Two, J
Force, K Force, Malaya and Borneo, were
flown to London as part of the official NZDF
contingent.
The oldest veteran, 90-year-old Mr Ron
Greaves, saw lengthy service in WWII,
fighting in battles for Greece, Crete, North
Africa and Italy.
‘I was lucky to survive, and now I’m very
lucky to be over here for my mates,’ the
former gunner said. ‘I’ll be remembering
some of my mates that didn’t come
back.’
SQNLDR (Rtd.) Gordon Thompson, who
served with the RNZAF in Borneo, Malaya
and Vietnam, said, ‘I consider being
selected to attend the unveiling of the New
Zealand Memorial in London to be an
honour and a privilege.’
RNZRSA President Mr Campbell said
being at the ceremony ‘meant so much’
to him and the other veterans present. ‘To
see the memorial in Hyde Park Corner
was very emotional but also marvellous.
The presence of so many members of the
Royal family, both prime ministers, and
the hundreds of young New Zealanders
attending really meant a lot to all of us.
‘We know the memorial will provide a
wonderful focal point for New Zealanders
living in and visiting the United Kingdom,
and we are very proud to be here.’
F/S George Mana led the NZDF Maori
Culture Group for the ceremony. Although
the group were wearing limited apparel on
the bitterly cold day – F/S Mana compared
it to mid-winter Wellington – he said the
performers were so keyed up on adrenaline
they didn’t notice the cold until after they
returned to their warm rooms.
The Warrant Officer of the Air Force, W/O
Keith Gell, had just two words to describe
Operation Union Jack: ‘awesome’ and
‘proud.’
New Zealand High Commissioner
Jonathon Hunt said there are a number
of significant Commonwealth and war
memorials in London, but this was the first
devoted to the significant bond between
New Zealand and the United Kingdom.
Ten of the memorial’s standards form an
angled grid with a ‘leader’, which contains
the dedication text and is the site for laying
official wreaths. Each standard is formed
from two intersecting plates of bronze
and, when seen from above and afar, the
sculptures appear like a series of crosses
hanging in the air.
The other six standards are positioned to
AK 06-0480-25
AK 06-0480-39
AK 06-0480-70
LAC Tamehana Naera, part of the Tri-Service maori Cultural Group, enters Hyde Park alongside the Navy Element of
the Royal Guard.
ABOVE: The Guidon of Queen Alexandra’s Mounted Rifles carried by WO2 Timothy Sincock. In a special regimental
tradition the Guidon escorts carry Boer War vintage rifles. QAMR is the oldest regular force unit in the NZ Army.
ABOVE RIGHT: Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Helen Clark, her majesty The Queen, and RNZAF Maori Co-ordinator W/O
Doug Wallace.
form the shape of the Southern Cross. At
night their tops will be illuminated so that
the crosses look like the southern stars
indicating the compass direction south
– pointing the way home for wandering
Kiwis.
After the ceremony, invited guests went to
a function at the RAF Club. The contingent
went to a function at Wellington Barracks in
London. Dave Dobbyn picked up his guitar
and sang to the troops, who then watched
the All Blacks defeat France.
Contingent Commander COL Kevin
Burnett congratulated the contingent
on their efforts. ‘You can all be both
collectively and individually proud of what
you’ve achieved. Your performance in the
ceremony was outstanding.’
The Guard Commander, SQNLDR Nick
Olney, said that due to the Guard’s many
hours of practice, two previous official
parades together, and their complete
dedication, they encountered ‘absolutely
no hiccups.’ The overall event also went
very smoothly.
‘It was definitely a day the NZDF can
stand up and be proud of,’ said SQNLDR
Olney. ‘All of those who contributed, from
those on parade through to those in the
background to ensure it all went smoothly,
every single person contributed to a
magnificent event.
He described the ceremony as an excellent
mix of military pageantry, New Zealand
culture and ceremony. ‘It evoked a number
of emotions throughout the day, namely
intense pride, but also sadness when you
considered the number of Kiwis whose lives
had been lost in times of conflict and are
commemorated by this memorial. The day
had it all.’
ARMISTICE DAY WELLINGTON
OH 06-0609-13 OH 06-0609-55
While a large NZDF contingent was in London for the dedication
of the NZ Memorial in Hyde Park, the 88th anniversary of the
signing of the Armistice was marked in Wellington at the tomb of
AFN77 DECEMBER 06 www.airforce.mil.nz
AFN77 DECEMBER 06 www.airforce.mil.nz
the unknown warrior. Vice Chief of Defence Force, AVM David
Bamfield, laid a wreath on behalf of the men and women of the
NZDF
TOP LEFT: LAC Tengaruru Sullivan keeps guard of the Tomb.
TOP RIGHT: CDRE Bruce Pepperell, BRIG Barry Vryenhoek and GPCAPT Peter
Randerson lay roses on the Tomb of the Unknown Warrior.
BOTTOM LEFT: His Excellency the Governor General - Anand Satyanand and
Susan Satyanand lay roses on the Tomb of the Unknown Warrior.
BOTTOM RIGHT: FLTLT Brett Tourell leads the Guard of Honour.
OH 06-0609-53
OH 06-0609-02
33

34
AIRCREW REMEMBERED AT HOOD
On 18 November, AIR CDRE Peter
Stockwell represented the RNZAF at a
ceremony in the new SVAS Museum at
Masterton’s Hood Aerodrome. There
memorial boards to the first aircrew of
No 14 Squadron RNZAF and to all the
Wairarapa aircrew who served in both
World Wars, were dedicated.
Some 250 Wairarapa men served as
aircrew; about eight in WWI and 240 in
WWII. Their names have been researched
by Peter Norman, himself a WWII RNZAF
fighter pilot.
In addition Hood Aerodrome was the first
home of the newly-formed No.14 Squadron
RNZAF which flew P-40 Kittyhawks there in
1942. Special guest at the ceremony was
Geoff Fisken, who first flew a Kittyhawk at
Hood Aerodrome (and that same airframe
is now kept at Hood Aerodrome, owned
by the Old Stick and Rudder Company).
Geoff went on to become the highestscoring
Commonwealth fighter pilot in the
Pacific theatre.
Hood Aerodrome will be the scene of
‘Wings Over Wairarapa 07’ airshow, on
20-21 January and featuring Warbirds
and many other vintage aircraft.
For more information on the air show:
Mr Fisken, ACC AIR CDRE Peter Stockwell and
Mr Bargh at the new SVAS Museum.
PATHFINDERS: THEY LIT THE WAY
THE PATHFINDERS: Lighting The
Way
CD, $12 RRP RIMPAC or the Air Force
Museum, Wigram.
Contact T.J Humphrey 06 344 7329
Last month I received a phone call from
an Auckland woman who wanted to speak
to someone in the Air Force about her
grandfather’s role in World War 2, as a
Pathfinder. Initially I was taken aback. It
would be a pity to lose such an important
and unique part of our history. I eventually
gave her the phone number of the Air
Force’s Social Historian Bee Dawson.
When, almost a month later broadcaster
Keith Richardson’s CD of his radio
documentary on the Pathfinders landed on
my desk I felt relieved that someone had
taken the trouble to record at least some of
the oral history of this remarkable group.
Richardson has produced a fascinating
history of the Pathfinders including
www.wings.org.nz
reminiscences from former pilots and
navigators and actual recordings of some
of the missions.
So, who were the Pathfinders? The story
begins in 1942 when it was realised
that RAF Bomber Command’s efforts at
hitting targets was to say the least a hit
and miss affair with fewer than one in ten
bombs actually hitting the intended target.
Something had to be done and done
quickly. The Pathfinder Force (PFF)
was an elite group of the best aircrew
- pilots, bombers and navigators and
gunners – whose job it was to literally
light the way for the main force using
flares. The PFF was headed by talented
Australian pilot and navigator Donald
Bennett. New Zealanders, Britons and
other Commonwealth airmen served
in the PFF. They flew a total of 50,490
missions against 3,440 targets. It
was a particularly dangerous mission
and aircrew were not permitted to
wear anything on their flying gear
that identified them as Pathfinders.
The Germans had vowed to shoot any
Pathfinder crews that fell into their hands.
Over 3,600 PFF crew members lost
their lives on operations over Europe.
The Pathfinders made a tremendous
contribution to the Allies victory.
Grant Carr
PAST PRANKS
Air Force personnel love a good prank, especially when
they can get photographic evidence. The photograph
at left was sent in by Air Force News reader, F/S Marty
Fitchett.
Crew Chief Chf Tech Bill Pearsey poses next to Avro
Vulcan B2 XH562 of the NEAF Bomber (Akrotiri) Wing
at RAF Masirah in March 1972. 562 was returning
from a trip to New Zealand where it had been most
spectacularly ‘zapped’ by personnel of the RNZAF. The
Squadron badge on the nosewheel door is that of No
75 Squadron RNZAF.
Apparently everyone was ‘in’ on the joke, even the Base
CO.
AFN77 DECEMBER 06 www.airforce.mil.nz
WN 06-0337-01 RICHARD JACKSON
SPITFIRE HERO
HONOURED BY HIS RELATIVES
On a clear September day in 1940, a flight
of Spitfires took off from Biggin Hill and
climbed to intercept a large formation of
German, Do17 bombers and their fighter
escort. It was the second scramble of the
day for the young pilots of No 92 SQN
led by FLTLT James Paterson. James led his
section close in behind the enemy bombers
but was seen shortly after struggling to
bail out with flames engulfing his aircraft.
James Paterson’s luck had run out and
his Spitfire drilled into a field next to
Sparepenny Lane, Farmingham, Kent. F/S
Charles Sydney, James No. 2, also lost his
life as he tried to protect his leader.
A simple stone memorial has been
unveiled in a field in Kent to mark the
place where the New Zealander crashed
in flames on the 27th September 1940.
A lone Spitfire flew a display over the
area, exactly 66 years after 20-year-old
James Paterson lost his life. The memorial
POPPIES
was the first to be put in place by the
Shoreham Aircraft Museum. Spokesman
Geoff Nutkins said a total of six Battle
of Britain pilots had died within 10 miles
of the museum. ‘We thought it would be
good to carry on with this and try and
concentrate on our local heroes,’ he said.
The stone was placed on farmland next to
a public walkway with the landowner and
local community being only too happy to
support the memorial.
Nine family members of the young New
Zealand pilot who died travelled across
the world to see the ceremony in the small
village of Farmingham. This included two
of James’s great-nephews, who currently
serve in the NZDF – FGOFF Sam Paterson
and 2LT Robert Paterson. Approximately
120 local people also attended the
ceremony. The ceremony started at
midday and included speeches from
James Paterson’s relatives detailing; his life
prior to the war, his wartime experiences
based on his daily diary and the effect of
his sacrifice and the war on his family.
FLTLT James Paterson was born in
Dunedin, in 1919, and having learned
to fly with RNZAF in 1938 he came to the
UK and joined the RAF on a Short Service
AFN77 DECEMBER 06
www.airforce.mil.nz
WN 06-0320-01
Nine members of the Paterson family flew across the world for the ceremony at Farmingham.
Commission. He was initially posted to No.
82 SQN, which flew the Bristol Blenheim
bomber. On the outbreak of the war
James was sent to France with No. 71
Wing, where he flew reconnaissance and
observation flights in Magister trainers for
the British Army. On promotion to FLTLT
he took over two service flights of No.
226 SQN, whose role was to deliver mail
medical supplies and fuel to the British
Army during its retreat.
He was awarded a posthumous military
MBE for his leadership during an attack
on his flight in the retreat through France.
James’s section was left behind during
the Dunkirk evacuation, communications
for him to evacuate never reached him.
With a bit of friendly persuasion (and a
.38 revolver) he acquired a French fishing
vessel for his men to escape to England. He
immediately requested a transfer to fighters
and after a short conversion to Spitfires,
joined No 92 Squadron in July 1940. He
shared a Ju88 kill on the 24th July and
the same again on the 19th August. He
claimed a Bf110 on the morning of the
11th September, but that afternoon the
tables were reversed and his Spitfire was
shot down by a Bf109. He suffered severe
burns to his face and neck before he was
able to bail out. James returned to No 92
SQN after a short period of sick leave,
although his vision was still impaired due
to his injuries. He was appointed acting
CO and died in combat a couple of days
later. The Battle of Britain had claimed
another ‘One of the few’ in his efforts to
halt the seemingly unstoppable advance
of Hitler’s war machine.
FGOFF Sam Paterson shares the same
birthday as his great-uncle, and had joined
the same air force at the same age as a
pilot. The stone memorial was covered
by an RNZAF Ensign which flew at both
James’s and Sam’s Wings graduation
parades (64 years apart). ‘It’s almost
scary the coincidences, he has been an
inspiration to me. It meant a great deal to
my family and I, that some volunteers from
a small local museum would put so much
time, effort and money into this memorial
for someone who came from the other
side of the world and made the ultimate
sacrifice for them,’ he said.
FLTLT James Paterson died three weeks
before his 21st birthday but had already
accomplished a huge amount and
experienced a great deal of life, from the
best of peace to the worst of war.
‘Never in the field of human conflict was
so much owed by so many to so few.’ - Sir
Winston Churchill
35

ORIGIN OF THE
the reply:
THE VICTORY EMBLEM
Oh! You who sleep in Flanders’ fields,
Sleep sweet – to rise anew;
We caught the torch you threw,
And holding high we kept
The faith with those who died.
We cherish too, the poppy red
That grows in fields where valour led,
It seems to signal to the skies
That blood of heroes never dies,
But lends a lustre to the red
Of the flower that blooms above the
dead
In Flanders’ fields.
And now the torch and poppy red
Wear in honour of our dead.
POPPY EMBLEM
Fear not that ye have died for naught:
We’ve learned the lesson that ye taught
In Flanders’ fields.
On November 9, 1918, only two days
The poppy is the recognised emblem of remembrance for all
those who have died in wars. But where does the emblem come
from? The following, written by 20th Battalion 2NZEF SGT Basil
Borthwick* explains its origins.
The Flanders Poppy was first described as In Flanders’ fields.
the ‘Flower of Remembrance’ by COL John The verses were sent anonymously to
McCrae, who before the First World War Punch magazine and published under the
was a well known Professor of Medicine title ‘In Flanders’ Fields’.
at McGill University, Montreal.
In May 1918 COL McCrae was brought
He had previously served as a gunner in as a stretcher case to one of the big
the South African War and at the outbreak hospitals on the channel coast of France.
of WW1 decided to join the fighting ranks. On the third evening he was wheeled to
However the powers-that-be decided the balcony to look over the sea toward the
before the Armistice was signed Miss
Michael was presented with a small gift
of money by some of the overseas War
Secretaries of the YMCA for whom she
worked, and whose conference was being
held at her house. She told them about the
two poems, and announced she was going
to buy 25 red poppies with the money.
This she did: she wore one herself, and
each Secretary bought one from her. It is
claimed that this is the first group selling
of poppies.
The French Secretary Madam Guerin,
had a practical and useful idea. She visited
HERITAGE GARDEN CELEBRATES VETERANS
Men and women who served New Zealand
in the armed forces were celebrated in a
unique ‘heritage garden’ at this year’s
Ellerslie International Flower Show.
Previous gold medal-winning designer
Sandra Arnet was retained by Flower
that his abilities could be used to better cliffs of Dover. The verses were obviously in various parts of the world to suggest that
Show sponsor Sentinel to create a garden
advantage and so he landed in France as his mind for he told the doctor in charge artificial poppies be made and sold to
celebrating returned services, in honour
a Medical Officer with the first Canadian of his case:
help ex-Servicemen and their dependants
of the Year of the Veteran. In doing so,
Army contingent.
Tell them this,
in need.
she turned her back on the sculptural,
At the second battle of Ypres in 1915, If ye break faith with us who die, we shall As a result the first ever Poppy Day
leafy, iconic gardens of the Flower Show
when in charge of a small first-aid post not sleep.
was held in Britain on November 11,
in past years to showcase scented and
and during a lull in the action he wrote, in The same night he died. He was interred 1921. The poppies came from a French
colourful blooms that visitors love.
pencil, on a page torn from his despatch
book the following verses:
In Flanders’ fields the poppies blow
in a beautiful cemetery on rising ground
above Wimeraux from where the cliffs of
Dover are visible on clear days.
organisation, which used the profits to help
children in war-devastated areas.
Hundreds of brilliant scarlet soldier
poppies, hundreds of antique roses in
creamy whites and scarlets are being
Between the crosses, row on row,
That mark our place: and in the sky
The larks, still bravely singing, fly
The First World War ended in November
1918, when an armistace was declared.
At 11am on November 11 the last shot
* This article was written by the late Basil
Borthwick (1913-1993) and submitted by his
son, Don. Mr Borthwick enlisted in the NZ
groomed to flowering by select nurseries
for the Sentinel Heritage Garden, which
opens with the event on 15 November.
TOP: The gate to the Sentinel Heritage Garden opened on 14 November.
ABOVE: Enjoying a relaxing cuppa in the garden were three RSA members who served during WWII.
L-R: Darcy Whiting, John Graham, Helen Roberts - all of the Ranfurly Veterans Home (Auckland).
Scarce heard amid the guns below. was fired. For many years after Armistice Army during World War 11 on 12 September
‘Sentinel wanted a garden reference the RSA, and the first rose ever planted Garden were flagstone paths, with
We are the dead. Short days ago
Day was observed on 11 November, but 1939 and sailed to Egypt with the First Echelon
to the RSA, including the palette of their in New Zealand ‘Slaters Crimson China’ beautiful replica stone seats. Wooden
36
We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,
Loved and were loved, and now we lie
In Flanders’ fields.
Take up our quarrel with the foe;
To you from failing hands we throw
The torch: be yours to hold it high.
If ye break faith with us who die
We shall not sleep, though poppies grow
now it is known as Remembrance Sunday
and is held on the second Sunday in
November.
An American lady Miss Moira Michael
had read the poem and was greatly
impressed, particularly by the last verse.
Wearing the poppy appeared to her to
be the way to keep faith and she wrote
in January 1940. He subsequently served in
Egypt, Greece, Crete (where he was promoted
to SGT) and Libya. He was taken prisoner on 1
December 1941 and spent time in Italian POW
camps before being transferred (after the fall
of Italy) to Stalag 317 in Austria and later to
Stalag 8A in Lower Silesia. He was released by
the Americans on 12 April 1945. He returned
to New Zealand in October 1945.
colours,’ says Sandra. ‘It’s a traditional
heritage garden, which should be in full
bloom in November. We wanted people
to walk in and say “this reminds me of my
grandmother’s garden – she had roses
like that”. We wanted people to feel they
were going back in time.’
A rose called ‘Lest we forget’, named for
- possibly brought to New Zealand from
a Sydney nursery by the enterprising
Rangitira Ruatara, for Samuel Marsden’s
mission in the Bay of Islands in 1814
– are expected to feature. The cutting this
rose was grown from descends directly
from that first rose.
Winding through Sentinel’s Heritage
gates and a red-roofed Victorian gazebo
complete the picture. The gazebo was
auctioned by Sentinel on Trade Me after
the Flower Show, with the proceeds going
to the RSA.
Sentinel is the country’s leading home equity
release provider with 3,000 clients.
37
AFN77 DECEMBER 06 www.airforce.mil.nz
AFN77 DECEMBER 06 www.airforce.mil.nz
PHOTOS: COURTESY PRAXIS PR

38
T R I A T H L O N
THEY SHALL NOT GROW OLD,
IT JUST FEELS THAT WAY
AN ARMISTICE DAY
TRIATHLON
About a year ago, during an evening
conversation, under extreme stress, brought
on by living in barracks at Trentham, old
age, vindaloo curry and a few pints of
Guinness, NZ Cadet Forces MAJ Bill
Carruthers (HQ Cadet Forces) decided
to celebrate his 60th birthday in October
2006 by attempting a Half Triathlon. His
audience all wished him well. However,
what the unsuspecting crowd had not
realised was that he had been intent on
roping in several others to take part.
At this time a number of gullible
individuals had nonchalantly acquiesced
to his ramblings, which had been the result
of watching repeats of NZ Idol and the said
Guinness. Over the next year Bill dutifully
trained, and his Mr Universe type body
could be seen many a night in the gym
and on the roads around Trentham; only
succumbing to the odd libation when duty
or pain in the old joints called.
He was all set to do his thing; however,
the difficulty was finding an appropriate
event at the right time of year, local enough
to take part in, and one that would allow
a crazy old loon on the course. This was
soon remedied by organising one himself.
A number of personnel had assured him,
that they would either take part in the event
or help with administration and/or support.
In the end most had other things to do with
their Saturday morning, like rearranging
the shoe cupboard, washing the dog or
were already heavily committed that day …
Yer Right! Bill, ever the stalwart individual,
conned WGCDR Andy Bell (HQ JFNZ) into
not only doing the Triathlon but supporting
it as well, a kind of do it yourself, then do
it, event. Nike would be proud!
Thus early on the morning of Saturday
11 November 2006, the inaugural event
kicked off with the swim in the X2O Pool
in Upper Hutt, a quick change saw the
intrepid (or stupid) duo on their bikes and
heading towards the Rimutaka Hill against
the wind (why?) making ground through
MAJ (CF) Bill Carruthers (left) and WGCDR Andy
Bell (right) before the swim
Mangaroa Valley before descending back
to Upper Hutt, finally finishing with a run
(jog, shuffle, limp, crawl) around part of
Upper Hutt.
Bill and Andy completed the 750m swim,
22 km cycle and 5 km run in an elapsed
time of 2 hours, 11 minutes 8 seconds,
and the enclosed photos tell the story. The
event was aptly named ‘The Upper ‘Utt
‘Urdle’. The broken English was used in the
title as it not only represented the language
of Andy’s native home of Yorkshire, but the
only language Bill could speak at the end
of the run. The event was celebrated in style
with the help of Arthur Guinness (who got
us in to this in the first place) along with a
WGCDR Bell powering through Mangaroa Valley.
MAJ (CF) Carruthers negotiating Wallaceville Hill. WGCDR Bell celebrates the end of the event
Bill dutifully trained,
and his Mr Universe
type body could be
seen many a night
in the gym and on
the roads around
Trentham.
WN 06-0325-01
WN 06-0325-03
MAJ (CF) (I’m b*****) Carruthers comes in after
the run.
number of friends and acquaintances, who
had amazingly managed to finish all their
myriad of tasks.
The intention now is to develop the
event into an annual occurrence for those
aged 50+, or stupidly enough to enter,
thus encouraging other members of the
NZ Defence Force to take part. On a
personal level the duo are now looking at
designing and completing a three-quarter
triathlon before attempting a full blown
event possibly by November 2007, but
Andy hopes to be posted soon, very soon!
Arthur Guinness would like to add, ‘that
beer was invented, to make us feel happy
about ourselves’!
AFN77 DECEMBER 06 www.airforce.mil.nz
WN 06-0325-05 WN 06-0325-04
WN 06-0325-02
AIR FORCE SHINES IN
FLTLT Keith Bartlett
The annual Navy half marathon was
held in sunny conditions at Devonport on
Wednesday 01 November.
The Air Force was well represented, with
No.5 Squadron members winning the
open men’s (FLTLT Keith Bartlett) and open
women’s sections (CPL Grace Urlich), as
well as SGT Phil Souster (OCISF) blitzing
the over-35 Men.
The course was three laps of a mainly
undulating circuit, though one short,
steep section caught a few on the last lap!
Although the main focus was on the half
marathon, participation is encouraged
through a walking event, or through
running the half marathon in teams of three
(one 7 km lap each), a great option for
those thinking of taking up running, but not
keen to begin with a 2 hour slog! Generous
sponsorship from nearby businesses
provided more than one-hundred spot
prizes to ease the pain of tired legs.
A special thanks to the Navy for the
seamless management of the event, main
sponsor Shoe Science, and Command
for encouraging full participation during
work time.
Grace crosses the line - note the time.
First male and female were FLTLT Keith Bartlett and CPL Grace Urlich.
Over 35s winner, SGT
Phil Souster
The No.5 Squadron runners.
N A V Y H A L F M A R A T H O N
NAVY HALF MARATHON
AFN77 DECEMBER 06 www.airforce.mil.nz
WN 06-0322-03
WN 06-0322-04
WN 06-0322-01
WN 06-0322-02
39

Base Sportspeople of the Year L-R: F/S Shar Carson (WGTN), FLTLT Craig Searle (AK), CPL John Ryan (WB), F/S Toni Tate (OH).
RNZAF SPORTSPERSON
OF THE YEAR 2006
OH 06-0653-15
ABOVE: Receiving their Gold Sports Badge from AVM Lintott are SQNLDR Hans Van Leeuwen (left) and W/O Brian Looker (right).
BELOW: Receiving her Gold Sports Badge from AVM Lintott was F/S Toni Tate (left). W/O Ian Ditfort receives the Flag Trophy as Sports Administrator of the Year (right).
F/S George Mana
Volleyball were unable to attend the awards so will be presented
the Year is awarded annually to the member making the most
outstanding contribution to sport during the year. Cognisance
is taken not only of outstanding performance but also of
administrative effort. This year’s recipient was FLTLT Craig Searle.
FLTLT Searle can only be described as having an extremely busy
summer and winter sporting season. His involvement in five sporting
codes from Base to NZDF levels, and participation at National
Tournaments for two codes is a testament to his diverse sporting
talent and dedication to sport.
‘We will be the best Air Force that is best in all we do.’
at a later date.
On behalf of the RNZAF Sports Committee I would like to
He Tauarangi matou ko te pai rawa atu i o matou mahi katoa. On the interbase competition front, two trophies are awarded.
congratulate all the winners of this years awards. To those that
This year’s RNZAF Sportsperson of the Year Awards was held The USAF Cup, awarded annually to the RNZAF Base that gains
were recognised at Base level we congratulate you also. However
at Shed 22 in Wellington, on Friday 24 November 06. It was a the highest aggregate of points in all interbase competition, was
there is a whakatauki (proverb) in maoridom that says:
successful year for all with interest in sport increasing and the awarded to RNZAF Base Auckland.
‘Ehara taku toa I te toa takitahi, engari he toa takitini.’
benefits being reaped by all concerned. Of particular note was the The second trophy, the RNZAF Cup, is awarded annually to the
Our success is not on the achievements of one but of the
wide scale of recognition from some of our most junior members Base, which by its overall performance in interbase competition
many.
to our senior members at Base level. This surely must reflect the throughout the year, is adjudged by the RNZAF Sports Committee
Thank you to everyone out there that has contributed in someway
interest and effect sport is having on the RNZAF.
to have promoted best the objectives of RNZAF sport and was
to RNZAF sport. Without your support as a player, official,
Six RNZAF Gold Sports Badges were presented in ultimate awarded to RNZAF Base Auckland.
commander, supportive partner, our successes would not come
recognition of consistent outstanding sporting achievement and The Flag Trophy, awarded to the RNZAF Administrator of the Year
to fruition.
long standing service to RNZAF sport to the following personnel: to recognise outstanding effort by a non-playing sports official, was
Where to from here?
SQNLDR Mark Stevens for his contributions to RNZAF Hockey; awarded to W/O Ian Ditfort from Woodbourne. Over the past
‘Hikina te manuka.’
FLTLT Paul Smillie for his contribution to RNZAF Volleyball; 12 months W/O Ditfort has been heavily involved in the softball
Take up the challenge.
F/S Toni Tate for her contribution to RNZAF Hockey and Softball; fraternity as a statistician at all levels from Base to provincial level,
If you want to see your Base winning next years USAF or RNZAF
W/O Looker for his contributions to RNZAF Bowls;
and was selected as the recipient for 2006.
Cup then start now. If you want your name on the Trophies start
SGT Gavin Hey for his contribution to Hockey;
The 141 Flight trophy is awarded annually for the most
now.
SQNLDR Jans Van Leeuwen for his contribution to Golf. outstanding achievement in sport by an RNZAF sportsperson. This
‘Whaia te iti kahurangi ki te tuohu koe, he maunga teitei.’
Two more recipients:
year’s recipient was SGT Chris Hurricks for his rating as No. 6
Seek that which you desire most, and do not be deterred by
40
F/S Vince Binding for his contribution to Football and SGT
Gavin Kotua for his contribution to Softball, Basketball and
in the world for Individual Freestyle Limited in Archery.
The Les Smith Memorial Trophy for RNZAF Sportsperson of
RNZAF Sportsperson of the Year FLTLT Craig Searle.
anything less than a lofty mountain.
41
AFN77 DECEMBER 06
www.airforce.mil.nz
AFN77 DECEMBER 06
www.airforce.mil.nz
OH 06-0653-02
OH 06-0653-05
OH 06-0653-09 OH 06-0653-04

OH 06-0528-51
R N Z A F R U G B Y R N Z A F R U G B Y
The RNZAF backline, along with the skipper CPL Jason Price, prepare to defend another wave of RAAF attacks. The RNZAF’s CPL Cameron Spiers proved to be a handful for the RAAF, breaking the line on many occasions and setting up at least two tries.
RNZAF RUGBY ON A ROLL:
A ROUND UP OF 2006
PLTOFF Robbie Harlow, CPL Perry Frecklington, and
CPL Jason Price
Interbase Rugby
Interbase Rugby 06 was held at RNZAF Base Woodbourne over
the weekend of 18 – 21 August, and as it happens every year was
a hotly contested tournament with the home town boys fancying
themselves as the firm favourites to take the Isitt Cup for 2006.
The Friday match between Auckland and Ohakea proved to
be a battering encounter in which the stronger Auckland boys
came through to take it out, 45-0, scoring seven tries to nil.
Special mention must go to the old veteran F/S Peter Richardson
who took the field due to OH injuries before succumbing to a
nasty head clash with FLTLT Adrian Grey. A better shiner you will
never find.
A depleted Ohakea squad took the field on Saturday to face a
fired up WB team, who took the game to OH and after twenty
minutes were on top of the boys in black and white. Final score
82–5 to WB.
Sunday was the much-anticipated showdown between the
reigning champs AK and a very confident WB team. The much
smaller forward pack of AK dominated the WB forwards from the
start and were able to give good ball to their star backline who
regularly penetrated the home side’s defence, scoring eight tries
to WB’s one. The final score was 50–13 to AK.
Isitt Cup (Tournament Winner) - Auckland.
Dinger Bell Plate (Runner up team) - Woodbourne.
Best dressed (On & off the Field) - Auckland.
Player of the Tournament - FLTLT Andy Foster (AK).
Colt of the Tournament - CPL Cameron Spiers (WB).
Women’s rugby was also contested at this interbase, for the
3rd consecutive year. In a hotly contested series of matches,
an Auckland 7’s team managed to hold off a very competitive
composite team from WB and OH. Even the CAF was seen
to cringe at the impressive physical commitment shown by the
ladies.
Interservice Rugby
During the last week of August the RNZAF rugby team travelled
to Waiouru for interservices rugby in an attempt to win the King
George V Cup for the first time in many years.
In the first game versus the Army the Air team competed well up
front and showed superior skills and speed in the backs to go into
the half time break ahead 8-7. The second half was another close
grind with Army scoring a converted try out wide and Air missing
several opportunities, going down 14-8 at the final whistle. Players
to impress included SGT Justin Pike, FLTLT Charlie Beetham and
FLTLT Leigh Foster.
The next day was not going to be any easier with Air facing a fired
up Navy side who were determined to have a good tournament
in the build-up to their tour to South Africa in late September.
From the opening kick off they showed they meant business and
had scored two converted tries in the opening ten minutes to
lead 14-0. From here the Air Force team had to refocus and do
some serious groundwork to have any chance of avoiding the
dreaded wooden spoon. For the next 70 minutes Air completely
dominated in the loose and the backs were always looking to
break through the Navy defence. With concerted pressure the
Air team got back to 14-8 midway through the second half.
With 5 minutes to go FLTLT Andy Foster went over 10 m in from
touch and FLTLT Adrian Grey calmly slotted the conversion to
give Air Force a 15-14 lead. In the dying minutes the Air Force
side defended like men possessed to sustain the lead through to
the final whistle. Players to lead the fightback included Captain
CPL Jason Price, CPL Cameron Spiers, PLTOFF Robbie Harlow
and FLTLT Andy Foster.
Army took out the tournament with a comfortable win over Navy
on the last day of play.
NZDF Tour to Canberra
The Air Force made up the bulk of the New Zealand Defence
Force side this year with 11 players and two management
being selected for the inaugural Defence Forces Pacific Cup
Tournament, held in Canberra over 11-16 September 2006.
After going through pool play with an 88-5 win over Papua New
Guinea and a convincing loss to Fiji NZDF were drawn to play
Tonga in the Plate final. The Tongans were particularly fired up
due to the loss of their King and this showed with the two Hakas
almost producing a boil over of emotion. NZDF held a narrow
lead at half time 13-5 however midway through the second half
Tonga had come back to lead 17-13 due to some strong forward
play up front. In the last play of the match NZDF winger LCPL
Lloyd Carter went over in the corner after a solid scrum and slick
hands through the backs for an 18-17 NZDF victory.
Fiji were eventual winners outclassing the Australian Defence
Force in the final.
NZDF (Air) Representatives were:
FLTLT Adrian Grey; FLTLT Leigh Foster; FLTLT Charlie Beetham
PLTOFF Rob Harlow; SGT Dusty Miller; SGT Justin Pike; CPL
Jason Price (Captain); CPL Andrew Tihore; CPL Cameron Spiers;
LAC Parata Ainsley; LAC Shamus MacDonald; W/O Tony Katting
(Coach); F/S Peter Richardson (Manager).
Burn-Merz Shield
On 28 September the RNZAF rugby team descended on
Woodbourne to play in the annual Burn-Merz Shield challenge
against the RAAF. The Aussies had arrived on 24 September,
giving them plenty of time to train and build a team in order to
win the shield for the first time.
With RNZAF players still turning up just hours before kick off and
with some key players unavailable due to other commitments,
the pundits had the RAAF pegged as favourites. However, from
the first whistle it was clear that this was not going to be the
case. Despite this RNZAF line-up being a makeshift selection we
were still able to score first with FLTLT Adrian Grey outpacing the
defence to score and convert his own try. The next 70 minutes
resulted in the RNZAF showing why they were the superior team,
proceeding to take apart their Australian counterparts.
CPL Cameron Spiers blockbusting runs from number eight led
to two tries to the team captain CPL Jason Price who was always
close in support. FLTLT Andy Foster showed his raw ability from
fullback leading to a try of his own as well as another for the
ever-present skipper.
Other standout performers during the game were SGT Bruce
Bromwich who toiled well all game before earning himself a well
earned ten minute rest, and SGT Justin Pike whose fearless display
in the tight five paved the way for the RNZAF’s dominance. FLTLT
Randall Walker despite not touching a rugby ball in several years
unleashed a 40 metre drop goal late in the game to seal a well
earned victory 38-11.
42 43
AFN77 DECEMBER 06 www.airforce.mil.nz
AFN77 DECEMBER 06 www.airforce.mil.nz
OH 06-0528-49

A FINE FEAST OF FISH
Dawn is the ideal time to fish. Sunrise over the Mercury Islands. WN 06-0327-09
Auckland Base Dive Club’s annual pilgrimage to the Mercury Islands produced a lot of fun and a
feast of fish for the intrepid divers. FLTLT Tania Leadley tells a fishy tale.
Day one of Auckland Base Dive
Club’s annual pilgrimage to
the Mercury Islands, began
with us meeting in the Admin
needed a quick introduction to the target
species but that was overlooked with their
tale and photographic evidence of a close
encounter with a shark. Leaving the shelter
dolphins which spend the next two days
checking out what we were up to.
The second dive was for crayfish off
Stanley Island in 10 metres of clear water.
car park. Bougs Madden, Daggy, Nat of Otipo Bay for the Mercury Islands we The sun came out and helped us dry out
McDonald, Gabby Knight, Reg Dawson, were joined by three playful then there’s more good food and just when
Zee, Mel Wilson, Gav Leckner, Chris
I was thinking of a nap the tanks were
Weissenborn, Mrs Donna
refilled so it was gear back on for
Weissenborn, Scotty
a third dive. Again crayfish
and I travelled down
were the target at Coralie
to Whitianga to meet
Bay and most divers
John. His Trusty MV
returned with a good
Whai, is a 12-berth, 41
catch. A late afternoon
foot Steel Catamaran.
snack and the wind came
A fish known as a Nudi.
Check out his website
up enough to abandon
below.
the night dive in favour
For some this was
of evening fishing.
their sixth expedition
Day three was overcast
and the experiences of
and after over-nighting
previous trips helped us
at Rocky Bay we spent
quickly stow gear and
the day diving in the
cast off. A short trip
area. The first dive was
to Otipo Bay and the
timing was perfect for
another crayfish hunt,
this time in a maze of
KEEPING IT LEGAL: Measuring up the crays.
an early evening fish. After
narrow canyons. Following
sticks. Visibility was limited to a small before heading back across the Bombays ABOVE: This shark caused some excitement.
landing a mess of snapper, tea
a hot breakfast I began to
circle of light and yet somehow there to divvy up the catch. After eating fresh BELOW: Another fish oddity - perhaps a Leatherjacket.
was a welcome sight. During
have doubts about getting
was more to see. A few crayfish in the seafood breakfast, lunch and tea for the
the trip everyone helped with the
back into my wetsuit that had
bag and then it was back to the Whai next week I can’t wait to sign up for the
cooking duties, although some were
nothing to do with the difficulties
for a hot shower, late tea and early bed. 2007 trip. I might see you there.
definitely more effective in the role. With
an early night under our belts we were up
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP CENTRE:
F/S Richard Madden, Mrs Donna Weissenborn,
Mr Paul Scott, FLT LT Tania Leadley, LAC Melanie
of wet neoprene. We made a short move
further into the Bay to the second dive site
The next morning, day four and we were
homeward bound, but there was time for
For more information on John’s marine
adventures see his website:
44
first thing for the morning dive. This was
a 12-metre scallop gathering exercise
and a successful start to the diving. Some
Wilson, CPL Christopher Weissenborn, SQN LDR
Gavin Leckner, SGT Timothy Dagg, CPL Natalie
McDonald, CPL Gabrielle Knight, F/S Reginald
Dawson, CPL Philip Ziesler and John the Skipper.
and an opportunity to try spear fishing.
The night dive was on and we entered
the dark water with torches and cyalume
a last cray dive at Green Island and then
back at Otipo Bay. The last dive of the trip
was an opportunity to top up on scallops
marineadventures.co.nz
45
AFN77 DECEMBER 06 www.airforce.mil.nz
WN 06-0327-03
WN 06-0327-08
Another unknown but exotic fish.
AFN77 DECEMBER 06
www.airforce.mil.nz
WN 06-0327-02
WN 06-0327-01
WN 06-0327-06
WN 06-0327-07
WN 06-0327-04
CPL Chris Weissenborn with a starfish.
A cray investigates the intruders.

46
R N Z A F A C O N F E R E N C E 2 0 0 6
RNZAFA Conference 2006
AVM (Rtd.) Robin Klitscher
RNZAFA National President
Is the Royal New Zealand Air Force
Association alive and well? Of course it
is. Does it intend to stay that way? Of
course it does.
We do not imply that it doesn’t face
challenges. Formed in 1945 by World
War 2 veterans, naturally it is now smaller
than it was. But this does not mean
its heart is smaller, nor that the values
it represents are shrunk. Continuing
interest in the organisation by successive
Chiefs of Air Force testifies to this – and
the compliment is much appreciated.
The RNZAFA is also prominent among
organisations affiliated to the Royal
New Zealand Returned and Services
Association. They and the RNZRSA are
a lively and significant lobby in welfare
matters which no government in the past
90 years has been able to ignore.
At this years’ conference, too, we
had an address from the Minister of
Defence, the Rt. Hon. Phil Goff, which
was interesting and greatly appreciated.
There are of course differences of opinion
on defence policy. One of the objectives
in the founding Charter of the RNZAFA
is ‘to strive for the maintenance of an
adequate and efficient Air Force...’
This is among the challenges, though
not perhaps in the way often assumed.
In the democracy our forebears fought
for it is always open to anyone to differ
from the government of the day without
penalty. And where the differences are
irreconcilable it is sensible and adult
simply to register them and move on.
What can be much more difficult to deal
with are misinterpretations of what is
actually said.
A problem can arise when we criticise
the policies that determine what the Air
Force must do, and the means it is given
to do it. This can be misconstrued as
criticism of the people in the Air Force,
when nothing could be further from our
minds. Our concern is purely to ensure
that the Service is properly manned,
trained and equipped to do not only what
is asked of it but also what history tells
us could reasonably be asked of it when
our predictions of the future turn out to be
wrong – as they have done often enough
OH 04-0589-02
WN 06-0340-03
AIRCDRE Dick Newlands
DL 3945-1510
Rt. Hon. Phil Goff
ABOVE: Feilding delegate Mr Frank Prior
asks the Minister a question.
LEFT: AVM Klitscher presents Mr Peter Crotty
with a Gold Star for his services to ATC.
BELOW: At the social evening delegates and
partners look on as members are presented
with Merit Awards.
We have nothing but praise for all who are
serving the nation so well, and at such a
high rate of activity. We salute you.
in the past.
Let me make plain that we of the
RNZAFA have no doubt whatsoever that
the modern Air Force is efficient, and
very good at what it does. We have
nothing but praise for all who are serving
the nation so well, and at such a high
rate of activity. We salute you. Indeed
we are highly gratified to think that the
foundations we left behind have proved
equal to the task of generating and
maintaining the skills needed.
Similarly, given that everything in the
past and the present was once the future,
we know that many now serving, and who
have recently served, will come to need
the assistance available from ex-Service
organisations. As we once provided the
foundations of service upon which you
now depend, so we suggest that you
should think seriously about helping us
maintain the foundations of service to
you upon which you will come to depend
in time. We need you now, as surely as
you will need us in the future when the
effects of military service on your health
and well-being come out in ways you do
not yet know.
AFN77 DECEMBER 06
www.airforce.mil.nz
WN 06-0340-01
WN 06-0340-02
Air Force co-sponsors
music awards
CPL Chevelle Ataera
The Royal New Zealand Air Force was a
proud co-sponsor of the 2006 Juice TV
Music Awards held at the St Matthews
Church, Auckland, on Tuesday 09 October.
Ten RNZAF Base Auckland personnel,
including myself, were lucky enough to
be provided with special VIP tickets to the
awards and represent the Air Force.
The evening began with free gifts at
the door, followed by nibbles and drinks
before the awards went live on TV. The Air
Force had been allocated main sponsor of
the Hip Hop Award for Best Video, which
was won by King Kapisi (Lollipop).
Throughout the evening we were able to
rub shoulders with some of New Zealand’s
top musicians and dance the night away
to live performances from Op Shop, The
Tutts, PNC and Stylus.
We found ourselves being approached
by people (after we were given a ‘shout
out’ on TV) wanting to know about the Air
Force. It was exciting to have celebrities
seem so interested in our careers.
By the end of the night we had become
well known to everybody. Whether it was
from discussing our careers with people,
busting awesome moves on the dance
floor or our five seconds of fame on TV,
we were identified as Air Force.
A fantastic venue, great food and drinks,
free gifts and live music made the 2006 Juice
TV Music Awards a most memorable night.
Co-sponsoring an event or awards is
a great way of getting your organisation
a profile within your target audience.
Director of Air Force Recruiting SQNLDR
AFN77 DECEMBER 06 www.airforce.mil.nz
Back: AC Jerry Drummond, CPL Chevelle Ataera, CPL Glenn Ormsby, AC Bevan Whyte. Front: LAC Emma
Morice, CPL Jody Irving, AC Aroha Tuatini-Metuamate, LAC Niki Donaldson and AC Louisa Grant.
LAC Morice, AC Rachel Main, AC Louisa Grant and the boys from Spacifix.
Shaun Sexton says: ‘We were approached
to sponsor one of the categories in the
awards and were offered a relatively
attractive package for doing so. The
MUSIC
AWARDS
Juice audience, while smaller than C4,
is squarely in our target demographic
and thus was considered an excellent
opportunity.’
0800 AIRFORCE
Find out what’s so great
about a career in
the Air Force
WN 06-0314-02
WN 06-0314-01
47

SGT Mike Long
One engine out, not to much of a worry….there goes number
2….ok time to start thinking about landing….there goes
number 3…right exactly where is that Airport!!
For most pilots out there this would be their worst nightmare
and one that they spend hours in simulators and training
flights learning how to cope with…now with Microsoft Flight
Simulator X the average home PC user can get a glimpse of
what its like to fly one of these huge machines and deal with
multiple engine failures to boot.
Opening the FSX box you are presented with 2 DVDs
and a quick start manual to flick through while the install
takes place. Once the install is complete FSX brings with it
Microsoft’s activation scheme (similar to Windows XP) which
until completed will limit you to 30 minutes of flight time
and removes the multiplayer option. If your connected to the
net at this point this takes about 30 seconds and removes
the need to have the DVD in the drive to play which I see as
quite a bonus.
FSX has evolved greatly since the previous version released
in 2004, with one of the major new features being the
mission scenarios. Everything from how to taxi, landing
747’s in crosswinds, flying gliders to even racing aircraft
against Jet powered
trucks is covered
and with twists and
turns within various
missions there’s sure
to be something to keep
you occupied for hours on end.
When you first start up a flight the first thing
that you will notice is that the graphics have
improved immensely compared to previous
titles but you’ll then find that this has come
at a cost and that is of the standard of PC
required to run FSX. As I found selecting
everything to maximum will bring on result
similar to a slideshow presentation, but with
some patience a suitable balance can be
found between level of detail and smooth
flight. Will your PC be able to run it? If
you’ve bought a PC for gaming in the last
AFN77 DECEMBER 06 www.airforce.mil.nz
6 months then you should be able
to run it quite well, if not then you
may be in for at least a video card
upgrade in the very near future.
What people reading this magazine
are probably most interested in is
do the planes fly like they do in real
life? Unfortunately my experience
in 747 single engine landings is
somewhat limited but after
hearing comments from
an experienced flight
instructor that tried the
program out it seems that while
the navigation system seem to be pretty
accurate the actual flight model has
been built more for enjoyment than pure
simulation. For the user base that FSX
seems to be targeted at this is pretty much
right where it should be, enough detail to
keep the more serious fliers happy while not
scaring away those who are venturing into
flight simulation for the first time, Microsoft
developers seemed to have struck a fairly nice balance between
the two.
So the verdict…if you’re looking for the most realistic flight
simulation you can get then you may wish to look elsewhere,
but if you’re looking for an enjoyable flight experience with
content that is going to be continued to be developed by a large
community in the years to come then FSX is well worth picking up
and getting into.
Me, I’m off back to racing gliders across the Austrian Alps and
trying to forget about that 747 landing.
Test system
AMD X2 4200, 2 Gb RAM, nVidia 7800GTX, Dell 24”
Monitor with game running at 1920x1200
48 49
AFN77 DECEMBER 06 www.airforce.mil.nz

F A R E W E L L S A N D N O T I C E S
WELCOME
A big welcome aboard goes to CPL I.M.
SCOTT who joined the RNZAF on 13
November to work at LSV Company,
Burnham Military Camp. And a welcome
also to LAC Thompson, who re-enlisted
on 3 November to work in Operational
Support Squadron.
FAREWELLS
BASE AUCKLAND
WGCDR G. WALFORD
Enlist: 25-08-80
Terminate: 02-01-07
Materiel Support Wing
BASE OHAKEA
PLTOFF J.V. BRINKMANN
Enlist: 20-07-05
Terminate: 24-11-06
PTS
SGT C.B. JAMES
Enlist: 09-02-98
Terminate: 15-11-06
No.3 Squadron
BASE WOODBOURNE
SGT R. MELTZER
Enlist: 15-02-83
Terminate: 26-11-06
ATS
BURNHAM MILITARY CAMP
LAC S.G. NAISH
Enlist: 21-01-03
Terminate: 03-05-07
LSV Company
U P C O M I N G E V E N T S
& R E U N I O N S
SHELLY BAY REUNION
10-11 MARCH 2007
IN WELLINGTON
Contact: Bart Bartlett:
loisandbart@hotmail.com
WRNZAF REUNION
No.37 Recruit Course
May 1964
All interested contact the
following:
Jean (Nairn) Nix, 11
Marshwood Place,
Christchurch 8004.
Rebbecca (Pavala) Dower
31A Kashmir Avenue, Upper
Hutt 5018
Wiki Ward-Holmes
m.v.adamson@xtra.co.nz
Colleen Towgood
towgoods@iqnin.co.nz
No. 41 Squadron(RNZAF)
Association is having
its bi-annual reunion in
Christchurch over 13-14th
April 2007.
Contact the President:
Barry Balsom
Tel: +64 3 374 3045
Fax: +64 3 374 3001
barry.balsom@nz.pwc.com
NEW CAREER FOR WGCDR
MALAYSIAN MEMORY TOUR
Merdeka 50th Anniversary
August 2007
Contact: Russ Byrne
56B Hynds Road,
Greerton, Tauranga
NO. 29 AIRMEN CADET
SCHOOL INTAKE 1972
35th Anniversary
19-21 January 2007
RNZAF Base Woodbourne
Contact: John Forrest
john.forrest@nzdf.mil.nz
+64 3 577 119
NO. 25 AIRMEN CADET
SCHOOL INTAKE
1968 & NO.7 CERT IN
ENGINEERING COURSE.
40th Anniversary
2008
Contact: Philip Blank
phil@cbdnet.com.au
An RNZAF Cricket reunion
will be held over 1 - 2
Feb 2007 at RNZAF Base
Woodbourne. Details are
available on the RNZAF
Website under the Reunion
banner or by contacting
W/O Gary Clark
gary.clark@nzdf.mil.nz
or Mr Merv Parr
merven.parr@nzdf.mil.nz
50
WGCDR Gary Walford leaves the RNZAF on 2
January 2007 after 26 years of service.
‘I have loved every day of my service in the
RNZAF and would not give any of it back. I will
also greatly miss all the people I have worked
with over the years,’ he said. WGCDR Walford
will take a new career in the commercial world.
No doubt his experience and knowledge from
working in the Materiel Support Wing helped
him to gain an appointment as Procurement
Manager for Tru-Test Ltd. - a New Zealand
based manufacturer of agricultural technology
products.
We wish WGCDR Walford all the best in his
new career and life outside the Air Force.
51
AFN77 DECEMBER 06 www.airforce.mil.nz
AFN77 DECEMBER 06 www.airforce.mil.nz

52
BUY PILOT BEAR
& SHOW YOU CARE
LIMITED EDITION
INDIVIDUALLY NUMBERED
The Royal New Zealand Air Force and KidCare Foundation proudly
present our new Air Force Pilot Bear.
KidCare Foundation is a registered charity that provides early
intervention for children emotionally or physically affected by
abuse and neglect. Our mission is to ensure the well being of
at risk children by providing support programmes to enable
children to rebuild their lives and grow into healthy, happy
adults who can make a positive contribution to the communities
they live in.
The RNZAF is proud to be a key partner of KidCare
Foundation helping children towards a brighter future.
Now is your chance to help make a difference by purchasing
Name:_____________________________________________
Phone Number:______________________________________
Physical Address:_____________________________________
(No PO Boxes please)_________________________________
___________________________________________________
one of these cute and cuddly bears. Air Force Pilot Bear is 26
cm tall and is a limited edition bear. Each bear has a unique
number printed on the ear tag. This makes Air Force Pilot Bear a
very unique and special gift for friends, family or even yourself.
To order your bear, complete the form below and send with
your cheque or credit card details to our freepost number
below, or if you prefer you can fax your order directly to
(09) 377 3686. Please make cheques payable to KidCare
Foundation. Your bear will be couriered to your door. Please
allow 21 days for delivery.
Yes - I’d love to purchase Air Force Pilot Bear to help at risk children.
Please send me _____ Air Force Pilot Bears.
1 x Bear = $29.95, 2 x Bears = $55.00, 3 x Bears = $75.00, 4 x Bears= $100.00
I wish to pay by credit card / cheque (please circle one – cheques payable to KidCare Foundation)
If paying by Credit Card please complete this section also:
Visa / Mastercard / American Express ( please circle one)
Name on Card_______________________________________
Card Number ________________________________________
Expiry Date______________________________
Authorised Signature___________________________________
Post or Fax your order to: KidCare Foundation, Freepost 178915, PO Box 9165, Newmarket, Auckland.
Phone (09) 377 3685 Fax (09) 377 3686
AFN77 DECEMBER 06 www.airforce.mil.nz