NZDF

The Defence Force is in Tonga to lead the humanitarian and disaster relief exercise Tropic Twilight which includes engineers from Tonga, China, and the United States.

RNZ reports seven schools were visited by members of the defence force to spread messages about dental hygiene, respect, and the importance of education.

Lieutenant Aidan Bilbe from the Royal New Zealand Army Medical Corps said many students in primary and secondary schools in Lifuka expressed a wish to join the military during a recent visit by military personnel taking part in Exercise Tropic Twilight 2016.

Exercise Tropic Twilight 2016 is a recurring activity that will be conducted this year in Tonga’s Ha’apai group of islands from 7-29 July. New Zealand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade is funding the projects being delivered as part of the New Zealand Aid Programme.

The humanitarian activity also involves military personnel from Tonga, the United States, China, France and Australia.                   

It is understood the substance is a drug. 

A spokesperson for the defence force confirmed they were investigating the incident which took place on Saturday. 

“The five personnel have been stood down from their normal duties while the investigation progresses,” they said. 

“This matter has not effected the NZDF's humanitarian support operation in Fiji.” 

Defence force staff are currently in Fiji along with the HMS Canterbury assisting with the recovery of Tropical Cyclone Winston.