The New Zealand Defence Force has taken on a Maori cultural adviser for the first time.
Jerald Twomey, from Ngati Raukawa ki Te Tonga, is a 22-year army veteran.
Warrant Officer Twomey says his job will be to enhance the Defence Force's unique cultural identity and give protocol and policy advice to the Chief of Defence Force, Lieutenant-General Jerry Mateparae.
He says defence personnel are now so busy, it can be a challenge to make the time for learning cultural skills.
