The New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) and a United States Army Aviation Regiment will conduct joint exercise in Auckland and Waiouru from 8-23 May, 2019.

The exercise will involve a large number of military personnel, including special forces from both countries, as well as aircraft. Its purpose is to practise counter-terrorism integration techniques between the two countries.

Elements of it will be carried out in central Auckland, Whenuapai, Kaipara, Papakura and Waiouru. It will involve day and night flying, as well as live firing within the Kaipara Air Weapons Range.

The NZDF and US armies have trained together regularly for many years. The exercise has been planned since 2018 and is not in response to the recent events in Christchurch.

Members of the public may see personnel conducting military activities from helicopters in exercise 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.

© Scoop Media