The division also comprised a number of supporting reconnaissance, artillery, engineer and supply units which reported directly to the divisional headquarters.

[6] All Army units stationed in New Zealand were held at a high level of readiness to respond to a Japanese landing throughout 1942, though beach defences ceased to be manned from August.

In addition, Masterton was struck by an earthquake on 24 June; following this disaster the 1st Battalion, Ruahine Regiment (which formed part of the 7th Brigade Group) patrolled the town and had to recover its colours from a ruined church.

[11] The New Zealand Government ordered a general stand-down of the defensive forces in the country on 28 June, which led to further reductions in the strength of units and a lower state of readiness.

[12] By the end of the year, almost all of the Territorial Force personnel had been demobilised (though they retained their uniforms and equipment), and only 44 soldiers were posted to the three divisional and seven brigade headquarters.