Media Release
18 May 2006
Soldiers Injured in Ammunition Incident
Three New Zealand Army soldiers have sustained injuries from an ammunition related incident that occurred while they
were taking part in an exercise in the Waiouru training area. The incident occurred at approximately 5.30pm Wednesday
night (not Thursday as previously stated) in the Argo Valley, 15 kilometres from Waiouru Camp.
A Court of Inquiry has been initiated.
Two soldiers were transported by civilian helicopter from Waiouru Hospital to Palmerston North Hospital last night. One
soldier is in a stable condition. The other soldier is in a serious condition. Both soldiers’ families are with them.
The third soldier was transported to Palmerston North Hospital last night via ambulance and has been discharged this
morning.
The soldiers had completed a live firing exercise and were taking part in refurbishing the position and the stores and
equipment used. It appears that an explosion occurred during this activity.
The soldiers are from Linton Military Camp based 1st Battalion, Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment. They were taking
part in an infantry weapons training activity. NZLAVs were part of the exercise although they were not used in the live
firing activity.
ENDS