LSV - Limited Service Volunteer - Canterbury

Kia ora whānau

Reid Class SO3/26 Update

On Monday, we welcomed 81 trainees from across Aotearoa, all arriving safely at Burnham to begin their LSV SO3/26 journey as Reid Class.

This morning we experienced some light snow falling which makes for an even more exhilarating start!

There were a few sleepy faces on day two as trainees adjusted to the 5:00am wake-up call, a great introduction to the routines and discipline that will help prepare them for employment and future success.

While there are still a few nerves, everyone is settling in well and beginning to find their feet.

This week began with a whakatau to officially welcome trainees onto the programme. They were also introduced to their Course Patron, Tipene Reid.

Trainees have had their first opportunity to meet the Officer Commanding (OC), who shared his expectations for the course, as well as receiving a briefing from the Warrant Officer.

Day two also marked the issuing of uniforms, an important milestone where individual differences give way to a shared identity. From here, everyone looks the same, signalling the beginning of one team working towards a common goal.

The first week is focused on settling into routines, building team foundations, participating in PT briefings, receiving an introduction to MSD, and taking part in a range of other learning sessions.

Next week, trainees will head away on their first field exercise. They will spend the week in the outdoors, learning how to pitch tents, developing practical field skills, and strengthening teamwork as they begin operating together as platoons.

We won't have photos to share until Week three. Trainees must provide consent before their images can be shared on our page, so you may not see your loved one featured online. Thank you for your patience and understanding.

A reminder that you can write to trainees while they are on course. Your messages of encouragement and support can make a real difference. If you need the mailing address, please send us a message.

Please post your words of encouragement to your young people as their whānau and friends for the journey ahead.

Ngā mihi,
LSV Team 🌿

Ede Class SO2/26
Service Day Photo's

SO2/26

EDE Class
SO2/26

A special visit from New Zealand Police, joined by their incredible four-legged partner Orion (Ori), gave our trainees a powerful and memorable experience. Alongside their handler, Ori showcased not just impressive skills, but the deep bond built on discipline, trust, and loyalty.

And a special moment of appreciation to the Police officer who took the full brunt of the capture — a powerful demonstration of courage, control, and absolute trust in their partner.

It was more than a demonstration — it was a real insight into the teamwork, commitment, and precision required to help keep our communities safe. Seeing that connection between handler and dog in action was something truly inspiring, leaving a lasting impact on everyone who witnessed it.

A partnership built on trust. A commitment to protect. A standard to aspire to.

EDE Class
SO2/26

The last of the photo's of our "stars" 🌟🌟✨⭐️ for Ede Class ❤️

EDE Class
SO2/26

A bit of a mish mash of photo's whānau - making sure you see them all 😁

EDE Class
SO2/26
Capping photo's 🫡❤️