From Monday to November 22, about 30 army logisticians — those who organise the logistics of the army, such as transport and supplies — from the 3rd Combat Service Support Battalion, based at Burnham Military Camp, will take part in an exercise ranging from Kurow to as far north as Tekapo.
Lieutenant James Austin, of Burnham, said the team would be acting out a scenario in which New Zealand was split into two countries and the one to the south was in trouble and its government had asked for help from the defence force of the northern country.
The exercise would involve a front line of armed troops battling an enemy called the "Alpirans".
Kurow, the Waitaki and Aviemore Dams, the Hakataramea Valley, Haldon Arm, the Tekapo River and the Tekapo military training area would serve as the scenario’s locations.
Lt Austin said the exercise was so army staff could practise various skills, including security and patrols.
Locals would probably notice the activity in Kurow, as it would be the exercise centre due to its proximity to Tekapo.
Landowners were happy for the army to use their property and the locals were open to the army practising in their town, he said.
"We’re going to be in Kurow for about four days before we head up."
