Dip Flat Military Training Camp

Dip Flat Military Training Camp is principally used for RNZAF field training and comes under the command of RNZAF Base Woodbourne.

The camp is located in the Upper Wairau Valley, Marlborough, approximately 105 km south of Woodbourne.

The camp, accessed by public road, is situated on an open river flat, surrounded by beech forest and 2,400-metre mountain peaks. It is on land permanently leased from Rainbow Station farm.

Royal New Zealand Air Force recruits undergoing basic training will complete modules at Dip Flat.

The location also serves as a touchdown, refuelling and crew change point for helicopters and crews from No.3 and No. 6 Squadrons. They come to undertake high altitude and mountain flying training in NH90, Seasprite and A109 helicopters.

An NH-90 helicopter with engine on, on the ground at Dip Flat.

An aviator sets up communications with a satellite dish and a computer in Dip Flat.

Two A109 helicopters with covers and tie-down ropes attached, are covered in snow at Dip Flat in winter.

Facilities and amenities

There’s a full sized commercial kitchen facility, storage areas, male and female ablutions, a large common room and a communications room.

Outbuildings hold generators, stores and firewood.

There are 14 huts on a lower level, providing accommodation for 84 personnel. An upper level contains shower and toilet blocks, as well as space to erect tents.

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