NEW Zealand has tested its ability to help Pacific neighbours during disasters as the region enters the traditional cyclone season from November to April.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT) led a large-scale relief exercise drill at RNZAF Base Auckland involving New Zealand’s main emergency, medical, defence, and police teams.
The goal was to practise planning, packing, and loading emergency supplies so they can be sent out fast when needed.
Teams worked with RNZAF experts to pack equipment, check cargo lists, and load supplies onto a C-130J Hercules aircraft.
Flight Sergeant Sam Collis said practising together makes a big difference.
“We all learn how to work as one team. Everyone sees how their gear is packed for flights, what space and weight limits we have, and how we make decisions,” he said.
The C-130J can carry up to eight pallets and 19 tonnes. Preparing a full load for disaster relief can take up to eight hours. Army staff showed how freight is checked and signed off before it goes on the plane, just like during a real emergency.
During the day, teams faced surprise changes, shifting priorities, and new coordination challenges—just like in a real disaster.
Flight Lieutenant Denzel Williams, a C-130J co-pilot, said these drills get crews ready for real missions where things change fast.
“These exercises help everyone be prepared.”
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