Air Force Mess

The Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF) is the aerial service branch of the New Zealand Defence Force. Established in 1923, the RNZAF was formed from New Zealand elements of the British Royal Air Force and has since fought in World War II, Malaya, Korean War, Vietnam and the Gulf War. The Air Force has undertaken various United Nations peacekeeping missions and today, they focus on maritime patrol and transport duties in support of the Royal New Zealand Navy and the New Zealand Army. Led by an Air Vice-Marshal who holds the appointment of Chief of Air Force, the RNZAF’s motto is Per ardua ad astra, meaning “through adversity to the stars”. Although its air combat capability ended in 2001, the RNZAF is proud of its history continues to service to the people of New Zealand.