Serco and StaplesVR partner on immersive training for NZDF

Image courtesy Serco

StaplesVR is an Aotearoa New Zealand-based leader in virtual and augmented reality training, delivering advanced simulation solutions for defence, aviation and other high-risk industries. Their technology enables personnel to train in realistic, high-consequence environments, building muscle memory, improving knowledge retention and enabling safe repetition of complex tasks.

Working alongside the NZDF, StaplesVR has already demonstrated how training can evolve from static, paper-based systems to immersive, portable learning that can be accessed anytime, anywhere, including at sea or in remote environments, increasing flexibility while improving readiness outcomes.

The Serco NZDF Training Services team and StaplesVR collaboration highlights how immersive training solutions can be integrated to create scalable, data-driven and hyper-realistic training environments.

Rewi Thompson, Contract Manager – Training Services, Serco New Zealand, believes that together, Serco NZ and StaplesVR bring a practical understanding of how people learn in high-pressure environments: “Together, we’re not just introducing new technology, we’re unlocking new ways of building confidence, capability and readiness. This partnership creates opportunities to grow a uniquely New Zealand capability that can scale internationally.”

Looking ahead, the partners believe the future of defence training is immersive, personalised and always-on. This MoU supports the future of simulation, using real-time data and operational context to prepare Defence personnel into the future, leveraging advanced mission training and technology-enabled learning.

Serco believe that working alongside New Zealand industry partners is critical to delivering the future capability of the NZDF, supporting a more secure, innovative and seamless approach that can respond to an increasingly complex defence environment.

StaplesVR was a Finalist in the 2026 NZ Hi-Tech Awards for Most Innovative Hi-Tech Creative Solution and the 2024 Winner of the NZ Minister of Defence Award for Excellence – Tu Tika (Commitment) Award.