Defence Force Hercules arrives in Middle East for contingency operations

Thursday 26 June 2025 · 5 outlets · 3 reports · updated Thu 26 Jun 2025, 3:07pm

In this story New Zealand Defence Force, Judith Collins, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Royal New Zealand Air Force, New Zealand Army

A Royal New Zealand Air Force C-130J Hercules has landed in the Middle East as part of contingency plans to assist New Zealanders wishing to leave Iran and Israel. The aircraft and personnel are positioned in the region to provide assistance if required.

How they headlined it

11:51am3:07pm

1. The Press via The PostThu 26 Jun 2025, 11:51am

   Defence Force Hercules arrives in Middle East (opens in new tab)

   Also on Waikato Times (opens in new tab), The Post (opens in new tab)

2. RNZThu 26 Jun 2025, 12:40pm

   Defence Force aircraft lands in Middle East to help stranded Kiwis (opens in new tab)

3. 1NewsThu 26 Jun 2025, 3:07pm

   NZDF plane lands in Middle East — no takers from Kiwis in Israel (opens in new tab)