Trans-Tasman training ramps up readiness

Australian Army Reserve soldiers deployed to New Zealand's South Island to train with New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) personnel on Exercise Tasman Reserve.

Known in New Zealand as Exercise Tauwharenikau, it forms part of the Australia-New Zealand Bilateral Service Cooperation Plan.

Forty soldiers from the NSW-based 5 Bde deepened their tactical interoperability with their fellow reservists from the 2nd/4th Battalion, Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment, who planned the activity.

Australian personnel trained on the New Zealand-issued MARS-L service rifle, NZDF communications systems, and completed cold-weather and hypothermia awareness training, preparing them to operate in the cold, wet conditions of the South Island.

Pte Johnny Cleland said it exposed Australian soldiers to conditions rarely experienced at home.

"We've been training in freezing and wet environments that we typically don't experience in Australia," Pte Cleland said.

"Working with our New Zealand colleagues has challenged us to think differently, adapt quickly and become better soldiers in tough, cold and wet environments.”

Field training included a helicopter insertion, patrolling, area defence, reconnaissance and surveillance, and route and terrain clearance.

Personnel also took part in cultural engagement activities, building relationships and sharing lessons on integration and operations.

WO2 Evan Acheson, Company Sergeant Major C Company, said the exercise had progressively built the combined force's ability to operate together.

"Every activity has been designed to make our soldiers more effective and strengthen our ability to work as a single team to win the fight," WO2 Acheson said.

"The exercise has demonstrated that when Australian and New Zealand soldiers train together, we can integrate quickly, adapt to challenges and deliver effects as one team."