August 2006 Issue No 44.

Come and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of the

F O R T A L E Z A COUNTRY INN

K A T I K A T I

Marion is co-ordinating the transport, so you will not be left behind !

Transport leaves the Garrison at 1100hrs

Official Newsletter of the 6th Battalion (Hauraki) Regimental Association Incorporated

Compiled 6t Edited by Des Anderson £t Penny Burgess Secretary: Mrs M Kareko, 91 Windsor Road, Tauranga

country at the

Luncheon is at 1200hrs

All welcome

UPCOMING EVENTS 2006

August

4th Friday 1600 hrs Garrison Club Nibbles 8th Tuesday 1900 hrs Garrison Club Committee Meeting 11th Friday 1600 hrs Garrison Club Nibbles 18th Friday 1600 hrs Garrison Club Nibbles 18th Friday 1900 hrs Hauraki Museum MOVIES 25th Friday 1600 hrs Garrison Club Finger Food

September

1st Friday 1600 hrs Garrison Club Nibbles 8th Friday 1600 hrs Garrison Club Nibbles 12th Tuesday 1900 hrs Garrison Club Committee Meeting 15th Friday 1600 hrs Garrison Club Club open 15th Friday 1800 hrs Garrison Club BBQ 15th Friday 1900 hrs Hauraki Museum Historian of the SAS 17th Sunday 1200 hrs Forta Liza Lunch 22nd Friday 1600 hrs Garrison Club Nibbles 23rd Saturday 1830 hrs Te Awamutu Presentation of the Hauraki March 29th Friday 1600 hrs Garrison Club Finger Food

October

6th Friday 1800 hrs Garrison Club Supper provided 10th Tuesday 1900 hrs Garrison Club Committee Meeting 13th Friday 1600 hrs Garrison Club Nibbles 20th Friday 1600 hrs Garrison Club Nibbles 20th Friday 1900 hrs Hauraki Museum MOVIES 27th Friday 1600 hrs Garrison Club Finger Food

November

3rd Friday 1600 hrs Garrison Club Nibbles 10th Friday 1600 hrs Garrison Club Nibbles 14th Tuesday 1900 hrs Garrison Club Committee Meeting 15th Newsletter printed & posted 17th Friday 1600 hrs Garrison Club Nibbles 17th Friday 1900 hrs Hauraki Museum MOVIES 24th Friday 1600 hrs Garrison Club Finger Food

December

10th Sunday 1200 hrs Christmas Function Daniels

Committee!

Patron:

Colonel Judge Chris McGuire

President: Des Anderson, teL 07 571 1951 H

07 575 3150 W 0274 764 073 M

Email. des.anderson(fi>actrix.co.nz Vice President Ted Dean teL 07-544 4536

Fax 07-544 4737

Secretary Treasurer Marion COMMITTEE 2005/2006Kareko, tel. 07 576 0277 H

07 578 8139W

Committee: Bob Mankelow Malcolm Hinton Erik Kristensen Bruce Beckett Tony Fraser Kevin Hayden

AREA REPS:

Auckland: Bob Mack tel. 09 4453242

Thames: Nil

Tauranga: See Committee

Matamata Doug Mc Glashen, tel. 07- 888 6314 Whakatane Jim Mc Ginty

Hamilton:

Stu Foster tel. 07-843 6121

Te Aroha: Gordon Eagleson, tel. 07-8846675

Presidents report] It appears I had miss-typed my telephone numbers in the last addition. Maybe that is why I have not received any letters to the editor. I have now corrected it, so I wait in anticipation for the flood of calls, with articles and suggestions.

The Editors of the Kia Kaha & the Hauraki News attempted to send out their editions simultaneously, however not to be! Unfortunately the computer gremlins became active and Russell Skeet (Editor- Kia Kaha) had a major collapse on his network. The outcome was the Association Members never got their copy of the Kia Kaha and the Kia Kaha membership received their copy of the May, Hauraki News, in July. However I have taken a selection of articles from the latest edition of the Kia Kaha and incorporated them into the Hauraki News.

Penny & Richard Burgess did not stand for the committee this year, but will be available to assist whenever they have time. Thanks to both of you for your help over the years. Penny a special thanks from the editor, for doing "magic" to the rough draft of the Hauraki News.

Hugh Harrison has also not stood for committee this year. He was the mainstay to the Hauraki News in recent times. I am sure you enjoyed his articles over the years. Thanks Hugh. However you are not entirely off the hook. Your reason for not continuing was "I can not write any more" but you can still talk so I will be around with my Dictaphone. The members will still be able to enjoy your reflections.

It's the Battalion's 110th birthday in a couple of years. Your committee and the 6 (Hauraki) Battalion Group are intending to have a combined event to celebrate this milestone. Have any ideas or suggestions?

Please forward them, so we can comply a great celebration.

Hope to see you at the Forta Liza on Sunday 17th

September

Kia Kaha Des Anderson President

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETiNGj

At the AGM held on 9 t n July 2006, the following were elected;

Patron - Hon Col Judge Maguire President - Des Anderson Vice President - Ted Dean Treasurer/ Secretary - Marion Kareko Committee - Bob Mankelow- Tony Fraser - Erik Kristensen - Bruce Beckett -Malcolm Hinton - Kevin Hayden

There were no remits.

Commandjn^OfficeJ

In the last Newsletter I said I had little background on the new Commanding Officer. The following is taken from the Kia Kaha - Ed

Lieutenant Colonel Warren John Banks Lieutenant Colonel Warren John Banks MNZM, ED, RNZIR, JP r a Tauranga businessman, was promoted and became Commanding Officer 6th Hauraki Battalion Group on the 20 t h March 2006. The Hauraki Battalion group is based in Tauranga but covers the area from the Bombay's in the north and south almost to Waiouru. Lt Col Banks remarked that while it is a fantastic honour to be put in charge of a unit that is 108 years old there is also a huge responsibility to carry the history forward of such a proud Regiment Born in 1898, the Hauraki's have lineage to the 43 Monmouthshire's who fought in the battle of Gate Pa in 1864. The unit is very much a family with sons and daughters following their parents into the ranks. Many of the unit's soldiers have been in the army for more than 25 years. The Battalion is a mix of Regular Force and Territorial Force personal.

Warren enlisted in the Territorial Force 31 years ago, initially serving in 2 Canterbury, Nelson Marlborough, West Coast Battalion where he was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant on 22 May 1976. He also served in the 5 Wellington, West Coast Bn, before he joined the 6 Hauraki Bn 23 years ago. He also attended a SAS selection course in 1989. In A 2000 he created the Civil Affairs Cell catering for Youth at youth programmes and supporting 10 NZ Cadet The training the young people receive from the unit immediate and beneficial impact on them and they fine contributing Kiwi's. In 2004 he was awarded of the NZ Order of Merit" in the Queens Birthday for his work in this area. The Commanding part time.

Risk, Rotary Force units,

has an become

the "Member Honours list Officers job is

In civilian street for the last 11 years, Warren has been CEO of Kaneb Terminals Group and Managing Director since 2002. 1 s t place in the Regional Business Awards.

In 2004 he led the company to

He is a Board member of the Bay of Plenty Economic Development Board, Priority One, a member of the Sunrise Rotary Club and a Justice of the Peace.

Married to Julia he has one daughter and three sons aged between 5 and 25. He believes that the secret to juggling the army, work and family is to strive to keep a balance at home and spending quality time with family. Warren stated that Julia provides fantastic support to the unit and is very forgiving about the time he spends away from home.

Let te i^c^h^dj toJ

No letters at this time, but please your views, ideas, comments are always welcome. Ed

Last Postl

Colonel Raymond Francis Smith CBE. OBE. ED. 29 t h January 1921 - 25 June 2006

Pte Douglas John Baker QSM 1926-01 July 2006

Obituary!

Lt Col Ray Smith in Command—1955 to 1959. Lt Col Ray Smith, OBE, a Rotorua newspaperman who had served with 24th Battalion in Italy during World War Two assumed command of the Battalion on 2 June 1955, after the retirement of Lt Col EW Aked. 1956 saw the establishment of an organization which has always had close links with the Hauraki Battalion, the Bay of Plenty Officers Club Inc. The Club was formed following discussions amongst a number of retired and Territorial Force officers during the mid-1950's, culminating in a formal meeting on the subject at which: Lt Col RF Smith, CO of the Hauraki Regiment, told the meeting that they were having an officers ante room at the [Dive Crescent] Army Hall, and offered the facilities for the use of the Club. The Regiment would only use it six to eight times a year, he hoped that by helping the Club, the Club would help the Regiment by explaining some of the CMT difficulties to the civilian population."

After the meeting supported the proposal, an executive was elected to establish a constitution. The committee met just six days later, on 24 April. The Club has maintained close links with the Battalion since: many Battalion officers have been members, and the Battalion has one position on the committee as of right. In addition to its social activities, the Club has acted as an informal network to support the Battalion in its own local activities. The Annual camps of 1952 to 1958 were held at the Battalion's second home, Tihoi. In 1959, however, the Battalion had its first ever Annual Camp at Waiouru. The Camp included a brigade exercise, Exercise Thermopylae', involving a withdrawal from Rangipo to Waiouru. In addition to the

change of venue, the Camp was also notable for its introduction of 'nuclear' technology. With the increasing proliferation of atomic weapons, it had been decided that our Army should train in fighting in a battle field environment which might include atomic bombs. As a result, during the exercise a 40-gallon drum was filled with oil and blown up with an explosive charge, creating an unmistakable mushroom cloud and forcing the troops to undertake the necessary protective procedures. While, with the benefit of hindsight, such a simulation might seem so simplistic as to be laughable, the detonation provided a memorable spectacle for those who saw it.

Immediately prior to the exercise, the Hauraki Battalion took part in a full brigade parade which was conducted on the Waiouru airfield v f e ! ^ - ^ g £ ' . under a clear, summer sky. Each of the units which took part ^^5*gg^ marched to the parade ground from their satellite camps, ~^55^» along gravel roads which stirred up a blinding, choking dust. Nonetheless, the memory which remains strongest is the sight of an entire Brigade on parade, against a backdrop of snow-capped Mt Ruapehu.

It must be noted that the Battle Honour Tebaga Gap' was specifically chosen in recognition of the links between the Regiment and 28 (Maori) Battalion, nearly half the members of which had come from the Regiment's catchment area, and many of whom had joined the Regiment after the War. Amongst the ex-'28s'who served with the Hauraki Battalion during this period, and who contributed to the development of its special flavour, were the Padre, Wi Huata, MC; Majors Don Stewart and Aubrey Balzer; Warrant Officer Class Two George Te Hau, MBE, who joined the Hauraki Regiment during the lean years of the 193's; and Lieutenant Hinga Grant, MM. Hinga Grant had won his MM as a Corporal at Takrouna in April 1943. After the battle he was observed by a senior British officer escorting a large body of Italian prisoners. In response to the British officer's offer to provide assistance, Grant is said to have replied: "It's all right Sir. They trust me.!"

During Lieutenant Colonel Smith's period of command, the Hauraki Regiment received it's Battle Honours from World War Two. The Battle Honours were selected by a committee comprising the Honorary Colonel (Colonel F Prideaux, CBE, ED), and a representative of the 18th, 21st, 24th and 29th p2j Battalions. The Regiment received fifty-seven Battle Honours, of § L'JST1'"I which the following ten were to be emblazoned on the Regimental Colour:

Mount Olympus, Tobruk, 1941, El Alamein, The V^W.'i ^ I'M Sangro, The Senio, Crete, Defence of Alamein Line, Tebaga Gap, Cassino 1 and Solomons.

Lieutenant Colonel Smith's tenure also saw the transfer of a large number of soldiers to the Regular Force, to join 1st Battalion, New Zealand Regiment (NZR), a battalion which was raised virtually from scratch for service in Malaya in 1957. The deployment was in response to the Malayan Emergency, a struggle between the British and Malayan authorities and Communist insurgents. Of the fifteen Territorial Force officers who joined the new Battalion, four (Captains Jim Pearson and Tad' Hatherly, and Lieutenants Peter Anaru and Jim Prince) were serving Hauraki officers, while another three (Major Tony Matairi and Captains Bob Straight and Owen Mann) were Regular Force officers who had served in the Hauraki Battalion. A large number of other ranks also joined the new Battalion. The 740-strong 1st

Battalion arrived in Malaya in December 1957, and after in-theatre training was deployed on active service to the state of Perak in MARCH 1958. a SECOND DEPLOYMENT, BY 2ND Battalion, NZR, in December 1959, attracted another group of Hauraki's. Amongst those who transferred for this deployment was Lieutenant HR (Bob) Burt, who would return two decade later to command the Hauraki Battalion.

One of the most well-known Hauraki's to make the change was Huia Woods, formerly of Whakatane. After CMT training in the early 1950s, Woods returned to the Battalion and was commissioned in 1954. The following year, he applied to join the SAS Squadron being raised by Major Frank Rennie for service in Malaya. When it became known that Territorial Force officers were not being accepted for the new unit, Second Lieutenant Woods immediately resigned his commission and enlisted as a Trooper. His career thereafter was little short of extraordinary. He killed three Communist terrorists during his special training in Malaya. Woods quickly established a reputation as a superb tracker, even winning the respect of the Iban

trackers with whom the New Zealanders worked. During the next thirty years, he served with various units in the New Zealand and British Armies, including the British SAS. He died, overseas, in 1989.

In addition to those who transferred to the Regular Force, many of those who served in the Hauraki Regiment under CMT went on to play significant roles in civilian life: Major Roy Nairn, W02 Robert (Bob) Burns, and Noel Pope became Mayors of Cambridge, Whakatane and Tauranga respectively, while Lieutenant Ian McLean served several terms as MP for Tarawera in the late 1970s and 1980s. Another identity was Major Stew Perry, a minister in civilian life, and a rifle company commander in the Hauraki Regiment. Under the CMT scheme, the Hauraki Battalion grew to its largest size ever, and eventually became the biggest infantry battalion in the New Zealand Army. At its peak, the Battalion was over 1200-strong (although it still remained a single battalion establishment), and the area north of Waihi was temporarily detached to the Auckland Battalion. Inevitably, its very size began to pose problems: sections, platoons and companies became unwieldy, and distributing store became a major exercise in its own right.

The same problems were being experienced throughout the Territorial Force. In 1958, there were 23,700 men in the Territorial Force, and another 40,000 on the Reserve (comprising those who had completed their CMT training and fulfilled their three-year obligation to the Territorial Force). By this stage, New Zealand's commitment had changed from the Middle East to South East Asia, and the size of the force to be provided had been reduced from 33,000 to 23,000. With the Territorial Force and the Reserve already well over strength, the 1958 Review of Defence Policy announced that CMT would abolished with effect from 31 March 1959 and that Territorial force service thereafter would be entirely voluntary. The Regular and Territorial components of the Army were to have ceilings of 8100 and 7000 respectively.

The passing of CMT ended an era for the Hauraki Battalion, and brought to a close the heights of the Tihoi years. With service no longer compulsory, the Battalion's strength plummeted from 1200 to 300. There were a number of reasons for this fall.

Many had simply had enough of military life, while a few cited employers who were unsympathetic to military training (a surprising attitude, in light of the strong vote for CMT just a few years earlier, and the fact that many employers were ex-servicemen themselves). Others left the unit to join the expanded Regular Force, especially as developments in South East Asia gave the chance for an overseas posting.

Whatever their motivation for leaving - even those who had initially been reluctant to take part in the scheme, and who left as soon as they could do so - those who served with the Battalion during the CMT years now invariably look back favourably at the time they had in uniform. The experience was a "good leveler", and a "wonderful character building exercise."

An extract from "Comrades Brave" by Richard Taylor

Private Doug Baker

The world's longest-serving member of the Legion of Frontiersman, Doug Baker of Katikati has died at the age of 80.

Doug Baker joined the legion at 14 and at his death had been a member for a record of 66 years' service. He held almost every rank in the legion from frontiersman to brigadier. He also carried the title of Gold Pioneer, one of only three in the New Zealand Command.

In 1986, he was appointed brigadier for life and deputy commandant general. In 2003 the New Zealand Command made Doug honorary brigadier and senior statesman. In 2005 Doug was made honorary colonel in chief of the Welsh Command.

Doug was born in Hamilton and moved to Katikati at the age of seven, and began work in the bush at the age of 13. At the age of 18, Doug was given 3 hours to live after being injured in a logging accident, however he never lost his love for the timber industry and went on to form Baker Timber in Katikati.

Doug community service wasn't limited to Frontiersmen work. At 21 Doug became chairman of the Katikati Cemetery board (a position he held for nearly 30 years). For 29 years Doug served on the Domain board, which had responsibility for other Bay of Plenty Domains. Doug donated timber for many community projects. Doug drove the first ambulance in Katikati. In 1992 Doug was awarded the Queen's

Service Medial for services to the community.

Doug served in the 6 Hauraki Regiment from 1940 - 1945 as a signaller. Doug also served from 1951 - 1956 as a bandsman, were he played Solo Cornet.

Extracts from Elaine Fisher BOP Times & Doug's records - Ed

Return of (new) Waikato Mounted Rifles Badge)

In what must have been one of his final acts as Chief of Army, on the 19th April 2006 Major General Mataparae authorised the Waikato Mounted Rifles squadron to wear the cap and collar badges of the 4th (Waikato) Mounted Rifles regiment. This was the happy conclusion to two formal submissions to the Army Dress Committee and more than two years' persistent lobbying. Thus the badge that was worn by soldiers from the regiment on Chunak Bair at Gallipoli and later in the deserts of Sinai, Palestine and Syria will once more see the light of day. We are most grateful to the many individuals who have assisted us in this endeavour, particularly the veterans from the Waikato Mounted Rifles Association. The cap (or hat) badge features a Kaka within a wreath of kowhai leaves and blossoms. The Latin motto, Libertas et Natale Solum is generally translated as meaning 'Liberty and Homeland.' Incidentally, D.A.Corbett's authoritative book, The Regimental Badges of New Zealand', lists 28 other unit badges featuring birds, although ours is the only one with a Kaka.

The collar badges are simplified versions of the cap badge, featuring the same Kaka, but without the kowhai leaves and unit title. The left and right hand badges are each different with the Kaka facing in opposite directions. The collar badges are worn with the Kaka facing inwards. It is hard to fix exactly the date when the badge of the 4th (Waikato) Mounted Rifles was first introduced. Although the Territorial Force was formed in 1911, ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ — ^ ^ contemporary photographs show no badge being worn until /^^^Slp ^ \ more than a year later. On active service the brass C~^^gTn^>^^ badge was either blackened or removed. Today's N^^ lSyp^^^ squadron has opted for the new badge to be made in bronze. ^jBfifllflt^^ In 1944, the 4th (Waikato) Mounted Rifles, along with the 3rd (Auckland) Mounted Rifles and the 11th (North Auckland) Mounted Rifles came together to form the 1st Armoured Regiment of the New Zealand Armoured Corps and the badge vanished from view.

We have no idea when the new badges will be manufactured, although at the beginning of June the Army indicated that the process would take approximately three or four months. The original badges were made by the English company of Gaunts, but most NZ Army badges are now made by Mayer and Toye in Wellington. In drawing up our submissions to the Army Dress Committee, we were helped by the Hamilton company of Emblems NZ, which was actually founded by the son of a former soldier in the Waikato Mounted Rifles. We are hoping that they will also have the opportunity to tender for the contract.

The Waikato Mounted Rifles badge has been bequeathed to us by our illustrious military forebears. It will be a visible symbol of our own identity, history and traditions. Today's generation of soldiers in the Waikato Mounted Rifles will wear it with pride.

S.M.Marriott, Squadron Commander, Waikato Mounted Rifles

ANZAC Address 2006, at Rotorua, presented by Col Aubrey Balzer; shown on Maori TV.

ANZAC Day - and as the dawn heralds the birth of this special day. A day forever enshrined in the history of our nation, New Zealander's wherever they may be, gather together to pay homage to, and to acknowledge and remember the tremendous sacrifices our young men made, so that we may live in freedom and peace in this beautiful country of ours.

Today, we mourn for the many thousands of our soldiers, sailors, and airman who made the supreme sacrifice; they paid for our freedom with their lives. Their reward, a small plot, marked with a white cross in a far off foreign land. We extend our sympathy to their families, whose lives were shattered by the loss of their beloved sons, husbands, relatives and friends. They too paid dearly for our freedom, and sacrificed much.

We turn our thought to those who arrived home on the hospital ships, all bearing horrific wounds. Many spent their lives in constant pain and were never able again to live a normal life, or participate in the activities they once enjoyed prior to the war. They too paid a very high price for our freedom.

Lastly we remember the war weary soldiers who returned home on the troop ships. Many had been traumatized by the horrors and stress of war, memories of which invaded their thoughts by day, while nightmares plagued their sleep at night. After having served many years in the services, some had difficulty readjusting to civilian life. They had little, if any money, and needed to find work urgently. Many had gone straight from school into the forces, and so had no trade or work experience to offer an employer. Job seekers were plentiful, work was not! Many of those who failed to make the transition from war to peace, and unable to clear their minds of the recurring images of wartime experiences, sought forgetfulness in alcohol. Do not condemn them, but try to understand their problem and be compassionate. Unlike today, there was no counselling available for troubled soldiers after the war.

We who served in World War 2 believed that we fought and won the war to end all wars. We now know that freedom also has to be defended, hence we once again have our young men putting their lives, their health and future at risk. Many have once again made the ultimate sacrifice in the cause of peace.

We therefore this day, remember those who served in Korea, Vietnam, Malaysia, East Timor, Afghanistan and the Solomon Islands. We support these veterans in gaining recognition for the health problems they and their children suffer as a result of their service in Vietnam or any other theatre of war. They and all other returned soldiers deserve nothing less than our total support and assistance. So let us give them whatever help they need. They have paid for and earned it. Let us extend to them our heartfelt thanks for the part they are playing in ensuring that we may continue to live in peace and liberty.

In conclusion, to my people, the Maori, the tangata whenua of New Zealand, I say be proud, stand tall, our young warriors earned us the right to stand shoulder to

shoulder with other freedom loving people of the world. In the foreword of the book entitled " 28 Maori Battalion", General Freyberg wrote that when the history of the battalion is written and published, it will be recognised that no other infantry Battalion had a more distinguished record or saw more fighting, or alas, had such heavy casualties as the Maori Battalion. This is born out in the official statistics which apply only to the Battalion and does not include Maori causalities suffered in other units or forces, or services.

Killed in action or died of wounds: 640 Officers and men. A ratio of 1 in every 6 who served in the Battalion. Casualties: 2598 Maori causalities. 2 in every 3 that served.

We as a small race, paid dearly with the lives and blood of the finest young men of our people. They did so for the love of their country - Aotearoa - and so that we here in New Zealand could continue to live in freedom, peace, and harmony, all of which are so precious to us all.

We will remember them.

The Museum

Your committee has purchased a mutli- meda projector for the use of movies & digital displays in the museum. It now requires help in accessing displays & placing them onto power point or historical photo's & documents onto CD.

Thanks to Bruce Beckett for donating a computer to the museum. It now requires people to set up a data base of items in the museum. Is there anyone able to offer their time? Do your children or grandchildren owe you a favour? - come to the Club for a drink whilst they spend an hour or so entering the data base. Any time at all would much appreciated.

Your museum curator Tony Frasier is continuously upgrading the museum. There are all sorts of new displays.

Funding to date of the Hauraki Group Museum has come from the Association & kind donations. This total is excess of $10,000.00. The committee is planning to raise another $10,000.00 for further developments, in the way of another wall cabinet and a mobile display case.

The Library, Books & Videos)

Books & videos have been donated to the Association. They are now in the new book case in the bar area. Many of the videos were donated by JMF. The books & video can be loaned out. Just sign in the book and please return when finished.

Garrison Club

The Garrison Club depends up volunteers to operate. The Bar managers are Bob Mankelow, Marion Kareko, Hugh Bomford, Kevin Hayden & Des Anderson.

The Garrison Club without doubt has the lowest prices around. We believe that we are not there to make a large profit, but for the comradeship within the Hauraki family & friends. Do make time to come and join us. All the profits from the Garrison are returned to the users. This year at the AGM it was agreed to distribute the profits to the:

• Hauraki Group, UPF - $828.00 • Cadets. The cadets are a very valuable recruiting resource for the Hauraki

Battalion Group & the Army. Most of this money is used for the Tohunga, presented as prizes to the top cadets on Hauraki Experience- $828.00

• Museum-$828.50 • Association Welfare - $828.50 • Association Administration - $828.50

Welfare

To assist with compiling a notification list so you may wish to attend the "Last Post" of a fellow member or a "Hauraki", please forward your email your address to me. My system is a little out of date, 2002. Everyone seems to change email addresses on a regular basis. My email address is des.anderson@actrix.co.nz. Unfortunately we have missed notifying members in the past. A problem we have also experienced is being advised of the passing of a Member or a Hauraki in a timely manner. Please advise if you have information relating to any Members/Hauraki passing.

Social Stories

Friday 7 m July 2006

A small group of Association members gathered to celebrated the Battalion's 108* birthday at the Garrison club. Pizza for everyone, washed down with a few drinks, with lots of "tall" stories being told. Sorry Bob, no pizza left overs!

Saturday 8 t h July 2006

The President & Committee member, Kevin Hayden traveled to the parade at Waiouru Military Camp. Cadets from the Hauraki Area, parade followed by presentation of the 6 t h Battalion Hauraki Association Sword which is presented to the top cadet, with individual & platoon presentations. Sponsored by the 6 t h Battalion Hauraki Association Incorporated

The President & Peter Croucher attended the BBQ following the Hauraki Walk. I had intended to also complete the walk but I was delayed in getting back from Waiouru! It was great evening , with the spirit of the Haurakis high, even after their walk.( see following stories).

With over $10,000 pledged or donated and 25 strenuous kilometers walked, the Battalion Group birthday was, by anyone's measure, a success! Fifty personnel, including the Honorary Colonel and the Commanding Officer, participated, in what is probably a unique piece of history for 6 Hau. To quote SSgt Blaize Robinson, Cadre of Operational Support Company, the organizer of the B.E.T. "...a great day in Hau history." There can be little doubt that all participants were mighty pleased with themselves at the end of that very long day. The funds raised go to the Multiple Sclerosis Society.

Extracts from the Kia Kaha - by Russell Skeet

6th (Hauraki) Battalion Group "Walkl It was no routine drill for soldiers and officers from the Bay of Plenty and Waikato who tramped their way to raise more than $10,000 for multiple sclerosis on Saturday, July 8. More than 50 members of the 6 Hauraki Battalion participated in the 25km walk from the end of Papamoa to the top of the Mount to celebrate the regiment's 108 t h

birthday and raise money for the Multiple Sclerosis Foundation of New Zealand.

Carrying full 25kg packs, webbing and weapons in what is referred to as a Battlefield Efficiency Test, the soldiers left Papamoa at 10am and made their way along the beach and up the Mount, with the last group arriving at 4.30pm.

Each solider was sponsored to participate in the event, and they also carried buckets along for people who wished to make a donation.

Overall $10,380 was raised for the foundation and presented to them during the Battalion's birthday celebrations later that night at the Mount Surf Lifesaving Club. The Battalion chose the foundation after one of its members was forced to leave after being diagnosed with the disease.

Extracts from the Kia Kaha - By Phillipa Yalden

Sunday 9 t h July 2006

The Annual General Meeting, was followed by a few liquid refreshments, courtesy of the PMC, Garrison Club. Then lunch at the Edgewater Restaurant, on the Strand, Tauranga, which was very good. I have been told the wine was even better. If only I could remember!

Social Events

Mark your calendar: Below are the social events your committee has planned for your enjoyment & comradeship.

Friday 15 t h September 2006

The NZSAS historian and archivist Wayne Holah will be showing a selection of NZSAS & SAS video pieces. Your committee has planned to extend the event by having a BBQ or light meal prior to the show, at 1800 hrs. The show will start at 1900hrs with intervals for refreshments.

Sunday 17 t h September 2006

How many times have you driven past the Forta Lesa and wondered what was inside? Well now you can find out. Come visit, for lunch with the best of companions... If you have been before be part of the swinging group.

Your committee is organizing this event; please inform the secretary if interested so your committee can book for the appropriate numbers! I believe there will be transport to and from the event, but I have been relieved of that responsibility, after my last attempt.

RSVP Marion 576 0277 Home

Sunday 10 t h December 2006 HmL

Daniels Catering by Queen Elizabeth Centre for Christmas Luncheon

Come to the Garrison for pre dinner drinks and then afterwards for some Port.

Hauraki Experience VIII was held at Waiouru from 2 n a - 8 t n July 2006. The President and Kevin Hayden (Committee) travelled down on Saturday 8 t h July to view the final parade & present the Hauraki Sword. The following is an indication of the commitment from the cadets & staff of the effort they give for the training. The aim of the exercise is to provide a safe military training environment for the Seven Cadet Units in the Hauraki Region An intensive 7-day exercise designed to provide the Cadet with an ethos and sense of values commensurate with taking their place within their Unit.

Attendance- 65 Cadets, 12 Cadet Staff, 13 6 t h Hauraki Bn Gp Instructors & Sgt R Pita NZCF Northern Area Advisor attended the training.

Cadets

This exercise with freezing temperatures challenged Cadets and Staff, training content was intensive which covered the following activities:

The parade appointments were as follows: \ Wi \ Reviewing Officer: Lt Col Marsden (Waiouru Support Command) Escorting Officer: Maj A Patterson 6 t h Hauraki Battalion Group and Capt T Ransfield NZCF (Opotiki) Parade Commander: Cdt Under Officer P Rewi (Rotorua) Parade CSM: Cdt W02 C Hancock (Te Awamutu Drill Sgt Cdt W02 B Killeen (Tauranga) No1 Guard - Upham Guard Comdr: Cdt Lcpl T Tahau (Taupo) Platoon Sgt: Cdt Lcpl S Jubber (Taupo) Marker: Cdt S Wairau (Taupo) No 2 Guard - Ngarimu Guard Comdr: Cdt Sgt G Ratapu (Tauranga) Pit Sgt: Cdt Cpl C Dyer (Opotiki) Marker: Cdt Cpl T Biddle (Opotiki) No 3 Guard - Bassett Guard Comdr: Cdt Cpl J Harrod (Rotorua) Pit Sgt: Cdt Lcpl D Britts (Rotorua) Marker: Cdt Lcpl R Johnson (Tauranga)

Awards were presented by Lt Col Marsden to: • MOST IMPROVED CADET AWARD (One from each Platoon) • UPHAM: Cdt L Costello (Taupo) NGARIMU: Cdt W Richmond (Opotiki)

BASSETT: Cdt P Flutey (Rotorua) • MOST IMPROVED JNCO: Cdt Lcpl R Johnson (Tauranga) • MOST IMPROVED SNCO: Cdt W02 C Hancock (Te Awamutu) • TOP PLATOON: Ngarimu Platoon

HAURAKI ASSOCIATION SWORD: was jointly awarded to Cdt W02 B Killeen (Tauranga) and Cdt SSgt R Vokaty (Opotiki)

At the completion of the Final Parade Maj A Patterson presented Individual certificates in the Conference Centre. The President of the Association presented the Hauraki Association Sword to the joint winners.

Your committee has agreed to set aside up to $500.00 to be used by a deserving cadet, upon application to the Association for use of the 2006 CCANZ- Singapore Exchange program.

A background to the exchange program. Introduction: Nominations are invited from all units for selection of Cadets and Cadet Officers or Adult volunteers to participate in the 2006 CCANZ- Singapore Exchange program.

Training conducted - Dril,.22 Range shoot, PT, Abseiling Moawhango Dam, Marae visit .Intro - Steyr shoot Navigation Team Building Exercises Familiarization with RATEL .Barrack Routine and Final Parade rehearsals The Final Parade was conducted on Saturday 8 July 06 Officer Cadet Parade Ground in front of Family and

at the

Extracts from WOI Dave Galvin Hauraki Battalion Group - Ed

The Singapore Exchange program will provide an opportunity for 20 cadets and 4 officers or adult volunteers to travel to Singapore and be hosted by representatives

of the Singapore National Cadet Corps from 30 November 2006 until 12 December 2006. Organized activities will commence 2 December 2006 and continue until 10 December 2006.

Important Note: Prior to applying, you, your Parents/Guardian, Unit Commander and Support Committee MUST be aware that it is your/their responsibility to raise funds to pay for all the travel costs and spending money required. It would be prudent to allow for a total funding of $2500 for airfares (both internal and to/from your host country) given the current fare structures, PLUS $400 spending money. All transfers and accommodation/meals in the host country are covered by the host country.

• SelectionCriteria In order to be eligible for nomination applicants must: -Demonstrate Leadership Qualities,

• Be returning to participate in Cadet activities in the following year • Be reliable and trustworthy Have a positive attitude Be seen to strive to

achieve excellence • Be a team player • Have a good service record • Cadets must be a minimum of 15 years old to participate in the program.

The program is open to Cadets and Officers of either gender. A current passport must be held by the participant prior to departure. Nominations must be authorised by the Unit Commander, Support Committee Chairperson and parents.

MOVIES AT THE GARRISlON|

18th August 2006 Cross of Iron starring James Coburn, Max Schell and James Mason. This is a gripping account of a doomed German platoon facing annihilation at the hands of the Russians in 1943

15th September 2006 SAS historian and archivist Wayne Holah will be showing a selection of SAS video pieces. He also has 17,000 photos from which he can extract individuals or subjects of choice. The video material includes:-Waiouru and Malaya 1955/57 Thailand 1962 Memorial dedication 1984 Parachute Training Unit 2003 If anyone has special requests to show photos of individuals or subjects this will be done by request. Please get your request to Hugh and he will pass it on to Wayne

20th October 2006 To be announced but it coincides with the Rhodesian Services Assn RV so there will be material of a Rhodesian flavour

17th November 2006 One of the Pink Panther series from Bob's extensive collection.

Please Note :- There will be no show in December due to everyone being otherwise occupied

Remember show starts at 7pm sharp. Bring a mate. Gold coin donation goes to the Hauraki Museum

News from the Regimen

Final Exercise for the Training Year Snow and closed roads did not stop the Hauraki's.

While snow closed many roads in the North Island and effectively isolated many towns, the 6 Hauraki Bn went on exercise. Waiouru was one of those towns isolated and while it stranded some key staff and ammunition, the exercise continued in the Mamaku's.

The exercise was the final one for the year and designed to teach and test individual competencies as a spring board for the new training year leading to Ex Northern Kiwi. Maximum concurrent activity was achieved with 7 groups operating. The infantry focused on OP's and section fire and movement. Waikato Mounted Rifles worked their training out to troop drill level including a night time replenishment and withdrawal. The Q provided support while Recon conducted detailed close target recon and debriefed the Int Officer. Drivers provided driving tasks and rehearsed repeatedly the camouflage and concealment. The prize for enthusiasm goes to the RIT's who were awake for much of the time running from one activity to another and driven by 2LT Kate Wawatai. The Officers operated the CP under the watchful eye

of the Adjutant.

The RSM WOI Mills was pleased with the focus of the instructors and soldiers. He said he was pleased to see the senior staff stepping up and taking responsibility.

This was also the final exercise for WOI Garry Ellis who is leaving the Bn to take up his new role as the STFWO with 2 LFG from 1 July.

A novel addition to the exercise was a visit from Scion, Forest Research Institute rebranded. The branch is the Centre for Human Factors and Ergonomics. The reason for the visit was to measure the physiological work levels on soldiers as they operate. This forms the benchmark for future assessments with heavier loads, different weapons etc. To this end Cpl Katu was rigged up with a heart monitor, GPS and video camera and was set various tasks. The data will be sent to the Ministry of Defence.

Extracts from the Kia Kaha - by Lt Col Warren Banks

The International Military Music Society, New Zealand Branch will present The Hauraki March, played by The Band of The Royal NZ Artillery, on Saturday 23 r

September 2006, 6.30pm. To be held at the ASB Events Centre, Te Awamutu.

This new, The Hauraki March, was commission by Lt Col John Dick, and will be received by Lt Col Warren Banks, on the 23 r d September 2006. The Hauraki March was composed by New Zealand's greatest living march composer - Te Awamutu's own John Gibbons, with lyrics written by Gavin Marriott. Gavin Marriott addressed the 6 (Hauraki), Officers, Warrant Officers and Senior Non Commissioned Officers Regimental Dinner, on Saturday, 12 t h August 2006. Gavin played a CD of The Hauraki March and distributed a copy of the Lyrics. Gavin stated 6 (Hauraki) Battalion Group will be unique, in that they will be the only unit in the NZ Army to have their own march.

The Hauraki March

Music - John Gibbons It^s \ f \ I Lyrics - Gavin Marriott

In eighteen ninety eight down Paeroa way The Sixths born a battalion of renowned frame Hauraki men did show their name In battles these Kiwis gave, all away.

Remember Trooper Bradford who led the way From here Maori Battalion and Freyberg came Hauraki men and women train In Tauranga where they serve, today.

Bay of Plenty, Waikato, Coromandel, King Country Whakatangata, kia kaha Acquit, yourselves, like men, be strong Whakatangata, kia kaha The blue and golds Hauraki March. Warrant Officers & Sergeant Mess.

The Warrant Officers & Sergeants Mess held a combined Regimental Dinner with the Officers & Partners on Saturday 12 t h August 2006, to which Associate Members & Partners were invited. The dinner was designed so that the Commanding Officer, Lt Col W. J. Banks, MNZM.ED could formally farewell the outgoing Lt Col J. W. Dick ED & W01 G.A. Ellis on their conclusion as Commanding Officer & Senior Weapons Instructor respectively from the Regiment. After the dinner, all were invited to the Hauraki Garrison Club, run by the UPF, for a less formal farewell.

A reminder to all associate members, the mess fees of $30.00 are now due. Please forward to the Treasurer, Warrant Officers & Sergeants Mess, 6 Hauraki Battalion Group, PO Box 2146, Tauranga. If you are not an associate member, but qualify, and wish to become an associate member, please send your request to the PMC, using the above address.

I am unsure about associate members of the Officers Mess - Ed

JUST HOW MUCH CAN WE FIT INTO A WEEKEND?

Some were issued with their very first set of DPM's on the Friday during battle pep, others assembled their brand new pack and webbing and nearly all the recruits in attendance walked into the armory and drew steyers for the very first time, not believing that by the end of the weekend this weapon would become second nature to use.

By the time we reached our harbour area early Saturday morning, not far from the Bn CP, the recruits already had received lessons on cam and concealment, judging distances and weapon carriage. Pte Barham and Tpr Macdonald started the morning off by reviewing navigation skills they learnt on RIT 2 - map to ground, magnetic variation and walking on a bearing. The remainder of the recruits worked hard under Cpl Hastings and Cpl Hawkes with C9 and steyer toets. Introduction to the ration pack and field cooking went down well at lunch. By mid afternoon the recruits had lessons on duties of a sentry, harbouring, Fire control orders and pairs fire maneuver and continued with weapon toets into the evening. With a lesson on night noises and a practical example the recruits erected their hootchies and settled down for the evening. The long night's sleep which the recruits (and neighbouring coy's) were expecting was rudely interrupted in the early hours of Sunday morning by "enemy" fire, forcing the recruits to "bug out" of their harbour area. By sunrise the PI Sgt - Sgt Ihei-Kiripa - had taken the recruits through patrolling, morning routine and hand signals. The instructors reinforced toets previously learnt and then all recruits were put through the observation and jungle lane with SSgt Solomon. A team competition involving the fireman's carry, a 200m sprint, press ups and weapon toets kept the recruits switched on, enthusiastic and physically prepared to begin blank pairs fire maneuver. Good communication was shown by all recruits remainder of the day. The weekend debriefs - from bn to individual level and all they had done their best, and walked away points. "I'm not sure I'm going to be able to

aggression and throughout the finished off with in attendance felt with good learning explain to family

what I did this weekend" one recruit explained - "I don't think they'd actually believe that we did so much!" That comment summed up the weekends training - Isn't it amazing what you can accomplish in one weekend with good planning, great instructor support and enthusiastic individuals. WELL DONE TO ALL THE RECUITS WHO ATTENDED!

Extracts from the Kia Kaha - by 2Lt Kate Wawatai

Exercise Whakatangata Kia Kaha 2 As a preliminary operation to the next training year an evaluation weekend, set at section level, was conducted on Mangapapa Road in the Mamaku Ranges over the period 23-25 June. The weather was cold with overcast skies, however the pine plantation mitigated the worse effects of the cooler weather. The Commanding Officers intent was to evaluate all soldiers in their primary role within a close country environment. An evaluation of CSS elements in their primary roles as drivers, chefs and store persons was also conducted. Although attendance of soldiers was less than expected, a nominal role of 68 personnel on the ground was pleasing. The training was conducted through a Command Post (CP) the O.I.C. being Capt

Copeland. Four stands were operated, being a jungle lane, an O.P., fire control and observation. While not immediately co-located with the infantry, the Waikato Mounted Rifles were supporting the training with their own co-ordinated programme.

Extracts from the Kia Kaha - by Russell Skeet

(ClOMVIilitajjy^^^

A personal account by 2Lt Raylene Kirk UEOTC (ex 6 Hau).

I was recruited from the side of a swimming pool, during an army swim test at my unit. Maybe she noticed the fire, burning in my eyes trying to beat the boys, or the competitive 'win at all costs' attitude. I was approached by a smiley young student who said' "So, you can swim, can you run?" Before waiting for an answer, she asked, "What are you doing this weekend? Would you like to get paid to get fit?" Before I knew it I was on a train to Aldershot for an army pentathlon selection weekend. We were met by the coaches and taken back to the bar at the Officers' Mess. The first thing that struck me was how friendly the people were. Everyone came up and introduced themselves and made me feel really, genuinely welcome. I was still struggling with fitting in at my new unit because I was the new girl and everyone knew each other so well. But here, everyone from Officer Cadets to Majors and Warrant Officers immediately made me feel like part of the team. Everyone gets along so well and it was really nice to be a part of it. Training began early the next morning on the range. As concentrating and staying still for 30 seconds were never my fortes, I found shooting difficult. The coaches are so helpful and constructive that within a few weekends of training, 1 have become a competent shot. Following a morning on the ranges, we climbed in the minibuses and drove to Deepcut. Everyone went silent and pale, I didn't know why, now I do. At Deepcut is the NATO obstacle course -20 obstacles over 500m -5 minutes of burning lungs and battery-acid legs, striving for a personal best time and to be the best team in the North Atlantic. I am away on my first "Timed Run". I thought I was fit! During basic

training we were bested by a New Zealand SAS PTI but nothing had prepared me for this... Everything burned; I had to will each leg in front of the other. I felt like throwing up at the end but

4j) something deep inside part of me loved it. Having been given the next few minutes to recover, we then spent the next hour

repeatedly training over the obstacles again and again. Pushing through the burn to find a second wind, hitting the wall and somehow getting a third wind. It gives you a new insight into your personal limits -just how far you can push yourself.... And then keep going some more, and how incredible that feeling is. From Deepcut, we then refuelled on energy drinks and snacks before arriving at the Sandhurst swimming pool. Previously, I used to consider myself a strong swimmer but after a couple of hundred metres in full Combat 95 uniform, I began to reconsider. The obstacle course in the pool is fun -over and under logs, breath-holding activities, pulling yourself and 5kg of wet uniform up a 1m platform at the end of the pool -masses more fun than normal conventional swimming. At around 11pm we returned to the Officers' Mess for a meeting and some social time together, exhausted but rewarded. Another early start sees the orienteers of the group being summoned away with the orienteering coach and the remainder being briefed for a 'light run'. The coach outlined that the warm-up would be a 6km run around the

woods track and then we would continue with a 12km time trial. At this point I laughed as I thought he was joking He wasn't. The first training weekend I found utterly exhausting but great and I made the decision then that I definitely wanted to come back. I attended the next selection weekend 2 weeks later; the itinerary was similar but each time the events seemed a bit easier. 'Beat up' week is the term given to the pre-competition training week. Training runs daily from 6am to 11pm including all aspects of fitness, strength and competition specifics. The teams bonds —45§53il™l3 fe^BM9 t '9 n t ' v a n c * friendship bonds strengthen. Orienteering

^ ^ ^ ^ ^ t J ^ ^ ^ ^ W " skills improve, obstacle course times lessen and precision ^ ^ - i r shooting scores rise. We departed for Rome at 3am on 30 t h July to begin our journey to find the top NATO nation from 42 teams. We were met at the airport by an Italian reserve Officer and taken by coach to Viterbo -the hosting town for CIOR 2006. The next few days we practiced with the Italian weapons, had zeroing shoots, adjusted to the 38 degrees centigrade and continued to train. The competition began on the Wednesday with the rifle and pistol shooting. My team mates are strong shooters and we managed to take an early lead over the Norwegian team. They were the current reigning champions and a very strong, experienced team. Day 2 saw the start of the land and water obstacle courses. Our team ran strongly and swam well and managed to strengthen our lead ahead of the other ladies teams. That night we were tested in First Aid and Law of Armed Conflict although this part of the competition is scored separately. Day 3 was the orienteering, map reading, range estimation and grenade throwing events and our team managed an overall position of 16 t h out of 42 teams and first within the female category by a comfortable 1000 points -an attribute to our coaches and trainers. CIOR training has made me a stronger person both mentally and physically. It has improved my soldiering skills and enhanced my leadership ability. I would strongly recommend the military competition and training to any Officer or Officer Cadet looking for a testing challenge.

Extracts from the Kia Kaha

i.

6 Battalion (Hauraki) Association Incorporated Application Form

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Brief resume of service with 6 Hauraki (Include dates & appointments

i

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(If Associate member - your association to 6 Hauraki Assoc.)

OFFICE USE ONLY

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This information is collected for the purpose of the 6 Battalion (Hauraki) Regimental Association Incorporated and is strictly Confidential. It will not be supplied to any other person or organisation in compliance with the Privacy Act.

Post Subscription to Secretary M Kareko 91 Windsor Road Tauranga

Suscription Rate New Member $20.00 Renewal $15.00 Perpetual Member $150.00

TJ Archer

PO Box 2217

Tauranga

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