NZDF soldier wounded in live-firing accident

A New Zealand Army soldier suffered a gunshot wound to the shoulder due to an accident during a live field firing training exercise at Tekapo Military Training Facility on Thursday, 2 August 2018.

The private, a member of the Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment’s 2nd 1st Battalion based at Burnham Military Camp, was taking part in a night live-firing exercise when the incident took place.

He was treated by New Zealand Army medics at the scene, before being transported to Fairlie by a New Zealand Defence Force ambulance, from where he was airlifted to Christchurch Hospital.

The injured soldier is in a stable condition and is scheduled to undergo surgery. The soldier and his family are being supported by the New Zealand Army.

The live-firing component of the exercise was suspended immediately following the incident. Strict rules govern live firing on ranges and careful contingency plans are in place, which were immediately carried out.

The New Zealand Army takes its health and safety responsibilities seriously and an investigation into the incident will be launched.