Recruiting Initiatives 2009
Image caption: Naval Display Unit (MC-09-0376-007).
On the Bus!
Navy Recruiting’s newest asset, the Naval Display Unit, was delivered on 14 October, following an 18-month project. In the Navy, the majority of our work is done at sea, over the horizon. We therefore face considerable challenges in promoting Navy Careers throughout New Zealand. The mobile Display Unit provides a versatile and modern platform for New Zealanders to gain a preview into the career options on offer in our Navy.
The Navy has used mobile display units over the last forty years to promote recruiting. The previous unit was commissioned in 1989 and notwithstanding a number of refits, came to the end of its economical life. That unit inspired many to follow naval careers over the past 20 years. But the need to replace it created the opportunity for an enhanced platform that reflects the Navy’s advanced technological capabilities.
The new Naval Display Unit is a modified Mitsubishi Fuso Fighter truck chassis with a 12.5m customised fibre glass body. It features three expandable sections to provide internal space for an Audio Visual Room for up to 20 persons, a bay with four interactive screens, a range of internal and external displays and a learning area for small children.
The contract was awarded to Phoenix Motor Homes of Waipapa, Northland, in March 2009 following a rigorous tender process. There was considerable interest from contractors in NZ and Australia, and Phoenix were selected as the best of 11 designs offered, in respect of both price and proposed design. The NDU was built by a consortium of three parties:
- Phoenix Motor Homes were the project managers and designed and built the special fibreglass body.
- Mitsubishi Trucks provided the chassis, and
- Majestic Global NZ Ltd. supplied all of the IT and the internal AV fit-out.
The visual imagery was produced by Saatchi & Saatchi.
Phoenix Motor Homes have been an excellent partner for the Navy in this unique project. Their design concept was sound and they have demonstrated considerable creativity, agility, and a real commitment to customer satisfaction throughout the build process. The finished quality of the unit is a real testament to their expertise in building a diverse range of vehicles.
Since its delivery last year, the NDU has been undergoing acceptance trials at PHILOMEL in preparation for its first tour this month. It returned to Phoenix Motor Homes’ workshop on 28 November for a post-delivery service check and an Open Day for the local public.
“Phoenix were excellent; really customer-focussed,” said LT Matt Stephens. “All three parties developed the original design although this was later refined in some areas. For instance, the chassis was dropped an additional 250mm for greater headroom and an overall increase in internal volume. The highlights for me were that the RNZN was supporting a small business in Northland, the project was on budget and on time, and the actual unit is the first of its kind with unique fibreglass construction.”
LTCDR Karl Arndt said “We are really pleased with the new NDU.” He explained that the touch screens, adjustable height computers, the theatrette and half a RHIB down aft (for the little nippers to play on) are all possible because of the pop out sides. When the pop out extensions are deployed, flexible skirts protect the sides and underside. One of the pop outs allows two extra seats across in the theatrette, while the other extension allows room for the touch screen monitors and a corridor, without students being crowded in.
The NDU also has awnings and a big, 50”, video screen with speakers on the outside of the bus—for attracting attention! The vehicle has hydraulic levelling arms to ensure a stable display, and reversing cameras for the driver. It is now in operation, taking the Navy across the country to attract future recruits.
Image caption: CDF and Andrew Stone of Saatchi & Saatchi sign the recruiting advertising contract. (WN-09-0111-003).
A Big Year
2009 was a big year for recruiting.
Recruiting Advertising Contract. On 28 August, a single recruiting advertising contract was signed, covering all three Services. Saatchi and Saatchi New Zealand CEO Andrew Stone and CDF Lieutenant General Jerry Mateparae signed the three-year contract. The agreement covering Navy, Army and Air Force recruiting advertising has been designed to deliver tangible benefits to the NZDF, including enhancing the consistency of approach, improving familiarity with Defence brands, and realising economies of scale.
“This joint approach is a new innovation for recruiting and we are looking forward to working with Saatchi over the longer term,” said LTGEN Mateparae. “While we will have a single company working on our recruiting advertising, it is recognised that each of our three Services have unique cultures, that resonate differently with young New Zealanders. Maintaining and effectively leveraging off these differences will be a challenge for Saatchis.”
Careers Advisors’ NZDF Experience. Over 40 secondary school careers advisors, from colleges across NZ, experienced the range of careers available within the NZDF during a visit to Camps and Bases from 29 June to 3 July. Their visit was intended to give them an insight into the training, lifestyle and benefits of a career in Navy, Army or Air Force. They visited Devonport Naval Base, Linton Army Camp and the RNZAF Base Ohakea.
The week began with a visit to the Naval Base, where naval activities including sea safety training, diving and explosive ordnance were demonstrated.
At Ohakea, RNZAF personnel demonstrated the role of the Iroquois helicopters, fixed wing flying training, and aircraft maintenance.
In Linton Army Camp the careers advisors saw Light Armoured Vehicles, the Mistral Air Defence System, and electronics and communications equipment displays.
“A tri-Service visit showcases the diverse and exciting career opportunities available within the wider Defence Force throughout the country,” said Army Recruiting Officer Warrant Officer Todd Groombridge.
Navy Adventure Challenge. The Navy Adventure Challenge programme was held at PHILOMEL, in July and again in September. The programme is organised by Navy Recruiting for 40 high-achieving Secondary School students from around NZ. Designed to be interesting, challenging and informative, the programme features activities within the naval base and at Tamaki Leadership Centre, Whangaparaoa. The objective is to inform students about the Navy not only for their own interest, but so that they can effectively communicate with school friends who might also be thinking of the Navy as a career.
Overseas Recruit Induction Courses. Overseas Lateral Recruitment Induction Courses were held at during the year. The Course provides Overseas Lateral Recruits with a seamless transition into the RNZN by introducing the recruits and their families to our Navy, to NZ culture, and to the local area and the facilities available to support them in their transition.
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