He reenlisted in 1939 and finished training with the rank of captain within the newly formed Maori battalion before seeing service in Greece, Crete, and Libya.
Once everyone was safe, he led a retreat 24 miles (39 km), with only two men to be killed, and eight wounded, all of who later recovered.
He later returned to help with training in NZ, and was discharged in 1944 having achieved the rank of major and worked in Maori welfare until he retired in 1956.
In the 1964 New Year Honours, Royal was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire, for services to the Māori people.
[6] He was survived by his wife, Irihapeti (Elizabeth) Te Puhi-o-Rākaiora Taiaroa (known as Puhi),[1] "three daughters and two sons.