A colourful history of New Zealand Air Force's helicopter division

Out now, Seek and Destroy is the official history of the machines and personnel in a unique squadron of the Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF).

‘Kimihia Ka Patu – Seek and Destroy’ is the motto of No.3 Squadron RNZAF, yet for most of its history this has been a helicopter squadron serving to support peacekeeping and civil operations.

Well known as the home of military helicopters from the Sioux and Iroquois to the current NH90 and A109, No.3 Squadron Royal New Zealand Air Force has had a colourful history over more than 80 years. It formed as a Territorial squadron in Christchurch in 1930, beginning a long association with Canterbury.

Flying Hudsons and Venturas, it was the first RNZAF unit to engage the Japanese during the Second World War, and in the post-war period flew Tiger Moths, Harvards and Mustangs. Disbanded in 1957, it reformed in 1965 as a joint service squadron and became a helicopter unit in 1972.

Operations since have seen personnel and helicopters in action from the UK and the Sinai to East Timor and Antarctica. Pilots from the squadron served in South Vietnam. It has provided cyclone relief throughout the Pacific and civil emergencies at home.

This deluxe hardback includes 265 black & white photos and maps, and 94 colour plates, bringing together stories of the operations and exercises conducted over its lifetime.

Paul Harrison

Author Paul Harrison served for 35 years in the RNZAF and was for 15 years its unofficial historian. He is the author or co-author of 11 published works on New Zealand aviation, with an emphasis on military aviation. He has been the editor of the RNZSA Review and Aerolegacy, and a correspondent for Aviation News. Now retired, he lives with his family in Papaparaumu. 

ISBN: 978-0-947506-45-2  |  RRP $85

Hardback with jacket, 260 x 200 mm 
388 pages (336 b&w, 52 colour)