A model that has been missing from our collection of 1:35 scale armoured vehicles has been the New Zealand Army NZLAV-25. This armed reconnaissance vehicle is a later version of the Australian ASLAV-25 built on the Generation III body. It is essentially the US Army STRYKER vehicle with the Australian built Delco turret and Bushmaster M242 25mm gun fitted.
When Trumpeter Models released the M1126 STRYKER Vehicle in 2007 we purchased a couple of them intending to build them straight from the box. After some research, we decided the modify the kit and use a spare ASLAV turret and turn the model into the New Zealand Army’s NZLAV-25. The top of the kit had to be extensively modified to accommodate the new turret. Using photos of the NZLAV provided by GDLS-A, we added loads of extra details incorporated into the New Zealand version.
The paint was matched from the photos and decals produced of the KIWI applied to the sides of the vehicles. The model was fitted into an acrylic display case and polished timber base.
In 2008 we were requested by an ex NZ Army member to produce another model. Using the same kit another model was completed and sent off to NZ for him. The model has now ended up in the UK on display at his home.