Commonly known as the Artillery Band, the Band has a history of over 140 year's continuous service as a Territorial Force (part time) unit of the NZ Army.

Founded in 1864, it is believed to be New Zealand's oldest continuous-serving military band. When the Auckland Militia was formed in 1858 a band was established, consisting mainly of men from the 58th and 65th regiments who had taken their discharge in Auckland. In 1864 the Militia received their first artillery pieces and the band began its association with artillery which continues to this day.

The band represents the NZ Army, performing at a wide variety of events from military parades to formal balls and dinners throughout the Auckland area every year. The band also provides background music on formal occasions, and members participate at national contests annually. In 2006 the band participated in the Year of the Veteran Pageant in Wellington and in 2008 the band travelled to Australia to participate in Reserve Force Day commemorations.


The band has a playing strength of 35, all of whom are attested members of the Territorial Force (TF) of the NZ Army. TF soldiers serve in their spare time, usually in the evenings and at weekends, in addition to their normal jobs. The members of the band come from a wide variety of civilian occupations but all are proud to be members of one of the oldest established bands in New Zealand, the "Gunners Band".

The Senior Appointments within the Band are:

• Director of Music and Bandmaster, Warrant Officer Class One Dennis Schofield
  
• Drum Major and Band Manager, Warrant Officer Class Two Chris Wade

The Band has vacancies from time to time and are always interested in hearing from Brass or Percussion players who may wish to join the Band if an opportunity arises.

Contact the Artillery Band:

Dennis Schofield:
09 298 4810
09 531 5605
Schofield.clan@xtra.co.nz

Chris Wade:
09 526 4700
09 579 9661

Postal:
P.O. Box 14182
Panmure
Auckland

For more information on the Army Reserve follow this link - www.armyreserve.mil.nz