These days, a lot of New Zealanders see their army as a peacekeeping force. However, the Army’s role also includes combat operations and disaster recovery. The museum is committed to growing our exhibitions in order to reflect the functions and experiences of the contemporary New Zealand Army Ngāti Tūmatauenga.
Peacekeeping
Since World War II, New Zealand’s Armed Forces – along with the New Zealand Police – have contributed to over 40 separate operations around the globe in countries like Cambodia, Bosnia, Somalia, East Timor, the Solomon Islands, Sinai and Afghanistan.
New Zealand servicemen and women have a well-founded reputation for excellence, and a natural ability to treat all races as equals. Their contribution has been as varied as the nations the Army has served in – from infantry, artillery, armour, communications, mechanical and electrical engineering to catering, transport, medical, de-mining and education.
Afghanistan
Post the 9/11 attacks, New Zealand’s initial contribution was NZSAS personnel being utilised as a “strike force”. This was followed by the New Zealand Provincial Reconstruction Team (NZPRT).
Over a period of 10 years, the New Zealanders provided security, supported to the local authorities, and played a project management role on projects – such as providing communities with new amenities, employment and assisting with the distribution of humanitarian aid especially during the harsh winter months. The deployment to Afghanistan resulted in 10 New Zealand deaths, and other servicemen and women coping with post-traumatic stress.
