NZ army training for urban warfare in Whanganui

Soldiers from around New Zealand are stationed at the Land Operations Training Centre in Whanganui.

They will be seen at Languards Bluff and a number of locations around Whanganui as they carry out blank firing activities and other training exercises.

Lance Corporal Marumaru-Flynn was leading an infantry training exercise at the shooting range in Airport Rd yesterday.

"The trainees all come from different backgrounds and places," he said.

"This is part of a 10-week course on small group tactics and this is the urban phase.

"It is about stability and support and covers things like vehicle checks and making sure a place is safe."

Company Sergeant Major Pani Houia said the exercise mirrors what soldiers do when they are stationed in a place like Iraq and all infantry soldiers are required to do the course.

"It's great to be in Whanganui and we are here until next Thursday.

"These soldiers are from two regiments and they have come from different parts of the country for the training."

The soldiers will also be training with civilian police personnel and will be seen around town on foot, in army vehicles and air force helicopters while they are here.