North Island military exercise begins today
People are being told not to panic if they see a large military presence in parts of the North Island from today.
Counter-terrorism training between the New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) and the United States Army is getting underway across Auckland, Kaipara and Waiouru.
- ‘Hell of a coincidence’: Officers who took down alleged Christchurch gunman were at training exercise
- New Zealand soldier suffers gunshot wound to shoulder after live firing exercise
- Australian dead in Cambodian military exercise explosion
It is expected to last from May 8 to 23.
The NZDF says the exercise has been planned since 2018, and is not in response to the Christchurch terror attacks.
It will involve special forces from both countries, including aircraft flying at both day and night. Live weapon firing will take place at the Kaipara Air Weapons Range.
The NZDF said in a statement members of the public may see personnel conducting military activities from helicopters in some areas.
“There is no need for the public to be concerned if they see military action in Auckland over this period.
“The NZDF would like to thank the public in advance for their cooperation during the exercise,” a spokesperson said.
Newshub.
‘Like a war zone’: Helicopters swoop low over Auckland, shaking homes
9 May, 2019 5:51am
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The two helicopters landed on Auckland Domain for a short time before leaving. Photo / Supplied
NZ Herald
At least two helicopters – believed to be military-grade Sikorsky choppers – swooped low over Auckland last night, shaking residents’ homes before they landed at the Domain and were greeted by an ambulance.
The choppers were part of a military training exercise but many residents were left bewildered and surprised by the force of their power.
Remuera resident Adele Print emailed the Herald to say the two helicopters swooped over her house. “Incredibly loud, the house shook, sounded like they were landing in our garden. One of our children saw them fly past the garden.”
A Newmarket resident said: “It was like something out of MASH – like a war zone. Our entire apartment block shook.”
Residents from other central and eastern suburbs also reported the helicopters flying low.
One of the choppers landed on a main sports field at the Auckland Domain – near the historic wooden grandstand – and was greeted by a St John ambulance with flashing lights. The second helicopter hovered as this was happening…READ MORE
