The New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) took part in Exercise Croix Du Sud 2025, a large disaster response training led by France and involving 18 other nations. The scenario simulated a cyclone hitting Wallis & Futuna, with activities based in New Caledonia.
About 2,000 personnel participated. This was also the first deployment of the Pacific Response Group (PRG), a new multinational disaster response team including members from Fiji, Tonga, Papua New Guinea, France, Australia, New Zealand, and Chile.
Formed in 2024, the PRG helps coordinate military and humanitarian efforts after disasters.
NZDF officers played key roles both on the ground in the simulated disaster zone and in planning from New Caledonia. The training aimed to strengthen Pacific cooperation and readiness for real-world emergencies.
