Air Force Museum of New Zealand

Air Force Museum of New Zealand

6 hours ago

URGENT CLARIFICATION: It has come to our attention that some people may have been lying awake at night, their minds riddled with confusion about the differences between Loadmasters and Bushmasters.

So we’re stepping in to clear up any doubt.

The confusion is understandable of course.

As well as having similar sounding names, Loadmasters and Bushmasters come in shades of green, are each brutishly strong and capable operators and they form integral parts of the modern defence force.

Some would say they are the chunky backbone of the NZDF.

But there are some subtle differences between these solid machines in green – not necessarily apparent at first to the untrained eye, which set these superstars apart.

So, we’ve prepared a handy three-step guide to help you tell our doppelgangers apart.

The first, and probably most noticeable difference, is that Loadmasters are strictly two-wheel drive while Bushmasters are four-wheel-drives. They can both operate comfortably at low speed in low ratios, and Loadmasters are particularly nimble going up stairs, where Bushmasters may struggle.

And while we are in the propulsion department, we should address the biggest difference – fuelling.

Loadmasters are fuelled via a top flap known as a ‘cake hole’ and accept almost any type of solid or liquid fuel, ranging from pies to higher octane liquids. Bushmasters run on diesel.

Which brings us to the final difference – and you will kick yourself once it is pointed out – range.

Bushmasters have a limited range of 800km, based on their 319-litre fuel capacity and need to fuel at least once every three days or so, depending on the mission.

Loadmasters have a much greater range, but require fuelling at least three times a day, and sometimes at more frequent intervals, depending on the mission.

So, there you have it, another clarification no one wanted or needed.

Never confuse your Bushmasters and Loadmasters again.

You’re welcome.

#urgentclarification #nzdf #rnzaf ... See MoreSee Less

Air Force Museum of New Zealand

1 day ago

⚽GO THE ALL WHITES! As the All Whites embark on their World Cup campaign today, we've raided our archive for some inspiring football photos from the RNZAF archives to spur them on.

As you can see, many fine athletes have played the beautiful game for the RNZAF over the years.

If you want to have a look at our extensive catalogue of football greatness, go to: airforcemuseum.co.nz/photographs/
and put in football as a key wo#WorldCup2026p#footballt#AllWhiteshites ... See MoreSee Less