RNZAF Base Ohakea Band

RNZAF Base Ohakea is in the heart of the Manawatu, just north of Palmerston North.
The base band had its beginnings in July 1940 when local regular force servicemen, using neglected instruments from Bulls, formed a band for parades under the direction of the Station Warrant Officer.

Today’s base band at Ohakea comprises of reserve force musicians supplemented by a small number of regular force volunteers. The base band undertakes a wide range of activities for the RNZAF in addition to their primary role of a ceremonial band playing at Flying Graduation Parades and other base ceremonies. These include public and school concerts, Military Tattoos, sporting fixtures, civic and service mess functions and receptions.

The Base Ohakea band is a brass band consisting of 25 to 30 musicians. It also performs in smaller groups; a brass quintet or quartet for receptions and other functions, as a Drum Corp when required for ceremonial purposes and providing buglers for commemorative occasions and services.