25 October - 13 November 2011
 
The general public is to be advised that a NZ Army Exercise will be conducted in the Oamaru, Herbert Forest, Waimate, Waitaki Valley, Danseys Pass, Hakataramea Valley and Tekapo areas over the period 25 October - 13 November 2011.

This exercise will give essential urban training to over 1,200 soldiers in preparation for deployment overseas.

To make the training more realistic, members of the public are encouraged to approach the soldiers to discuss the activity. If you are approached by a member of the Defence Force and do not wish to be part of the exercise, please just say so.

Training will involve soldiers carrying weapons and the movement of troops, vehicles and aircraft by day and night in the following areas:
 
The entire area of Waimate including the Old Nurses Home/Hunter Hills Lodge, Hunter Hills Lodge Lumber Yard, Waimate Aerodrome SH1 and Atwill Park Outdoor Centre/Scout Camp, Kelsey’s Bush.

The entire area of Oamaru including the Old Hospital, Old Freezer Warehouse, Marist ARFC Clubrooms, Herbert Forest, Oamaru Airport, Eason Farm - Ngapara and the Oamaru Cell Tower site.

Specific areas may be temporarily subject to restricted access for short periods of time to ensure public safety. Blank rounds and pyrotechnics will be used in built up areas.

NO LIVE AMMUNITION WILL BE USED IN PUBLIC AREAS.

Live ammunition will be used in the Oteake Conservation Park and Tekapo Military Training Area.

Open Days will be held on 12 November at Waimate Seddon Square and Oamaru Marist Rugby Football Club from 9am to 12 noon. Entry will be by gold coin donation with all proceeds going to the Waimate Historical Society and the Oamaru Sea Cadets.

For more information please call Regional Communications Advisor Major Josephine Barrett on 021 224 8658.