A series of meetings seeking public input into a review of the Defence Force begins on Saturday.
They are part of consultation for a Government review which began in June.
The review is the first since 1997. A White Paper is to be issued early next year spelling out the direction and purpose of the Defence Force to 2035.
Fourteen meetings will be held from Whangarei to Dunedin before the end of the month.
The first meeting, in central Auckland, will be held with either Defence Minister Wayne Mapp or Associate Defence Minister Heather Roy.
Dr Mapp says public input is needed because of the big decisions being faced.
The public can also give their views on three companion studies, including one looking at voluntary national service.
