With the exception of operations, training is the most important activity that the Army undertakes. 

Training occupies the majority of our time and it is the focus of a great deal of effort and resources.  Properly conducted, training serves as a powerful reminder of the realities of soldiering and develops the true potential of individuals, units, and formations.  It is the key means by which the New Zealand Army will provide ‘a world class Army that has mana (respect)’.

The focus of the New Zealand Army’s training is warfighting.  However, these days there is a wide spectrum of operations, including the growing number of coalition peace support and humanitarian operations.  This helps us focus our training given the limited time we have available.

Individual Training 

All officers and soldiers must be proficient in the wide range of knowledge and skills that underpin service in any part of the Army.  Additionally, they must be proficient in both the specialised skills and general competencies necessary for them to perform their particular jobs.  It is important that these skills are progressively enhanced as officers and soldiers are promoted to higher rank. 

Collective Training 

Collective training is the combination of individual skills in a group environment to provide a collective output.  Individuals rarely operate in isolation in the battlespace.  Collective or group training combines individual skills with those required for the performance of group tasks.  Collective training confirms that the team can achieve its assigned task. 

Command Training 

The effective training of commanders is fundamental to success on operations and is therefore to be given a high priority.  The New Zealand Army’s Doctrine Hierarchy requires a style of command that promotes decentralised command, freedom, and speed of action and initiative.