Scottish soldiers fall in for response

DUNEDIN: Scottish soldiers who were in New Zealand for the first time for a race organised by the New Zealand Defence Force were happy to help floodstricken communities in Otago instead.

Eight members of the Highlanders 4th Battalion arrived in New Zealand in midJuly to take part in Twin Peaks Battle Tab, a gruelling 26km race up the highest peaks surrounding Dunedin.

The race was cancelled on Friday night because of the powerful storm and the 120 NZDF personnel taking part were reassigned to support the disaster relief efforts.

‘‘It was great to be able to help the local communities,’’ said Captain Mathew Rupasinha, Platoon Commander of the Highlanders 4th Battalion.

‘‘We were sent to communities south of Mosgiel today to check that residents have evacuated to safer ground.

‘‘This is the first time we’ve all been to New Zealand and also the first time for us to help out in a flood response. The people were very warm and friendly. They were grateful.’’

Capt Rupasinha said the men spent the past week preparing for the race and acclimatising.

‘‘The team was disappointed but we do recognise that the weather is beyond our control.

‘‘Our regiment has a long history of engagement with the New Zealand Army. We fought alongside each other in the two world wars and, most recently, in Afghanistan and Iraq.’’

Capt Rupasinha was glad his men could support the flooding response with members of the NZDF to continue the history of cooperation. — NZME