Photographic exhibition - peace in Afghanistan

The Navy Museum is exhibiting a collection of photographs entitled “Peace in Afghanistan’ – a photographic pictorial exhibition of large format photographs taken by Naval Commander Karl Woodhead.

The exhibition is showing at The Depot Artspace, Devonport from 1 October to 18 October 2007.

Background

In November 2003 a group of 100 New Zealand Defence Force personnel were deployed to the province of Bamyan, Afghanistan. This group formed the second rotation of personnel making up New Zealand's Provincial Reconstruction Team (PRT) contributing to international efforts to rebuild the war-torn province.

The PRT's mission was to assist in the reconstruction of infrastructure, provide humanitarian aid and assistance, monitor disarmament, train and mentor members of the Afghan National Police and provide a stabilising presence in the area.

Amongst the team that arrived at the beginning of the sub-zero Afghan winter, was naval officer Lieutenant Commander Karl Woodhead. Karl had the dual roles of Engineer Officer to the PRT’s home ‘Kiwi Base’, located over 8,000 feet high in the Hindu Kush mountain range, and Programme Manager for New Zealand Agency for International Development aid funds.

Karl recorded this mission on his digital camera over a six month period. This exhibition represents a very personal view of a Royal New Zealand Navy peacekeeper, a view that endures for naval personnel serving to this day in Afghanistan.

The Depot Artspace is open daily:
Monday – Saturday 10am – 5 pm
Sundays 10 – 4 (variable)
Entry to all exhibitions is free.