Riley Kingi’s (Class of 2023) Journey from Dilworth to the Air Force
For Riley Kingi, the journey from a small-town upbringing in Paihia to a career in the Royal New Zealand Air Force began with a leap of faith at just eight years old.
After his mother learned about Dilworth through a friend, she thought that it was the best option for Riley, and this offer promised a direction to further his opportunities in life. But the pathway wasn’t easy, especially in the early years.
“I was really homesick,” Riley recalls. “Up until about Year 8, it was tough.”
Yet in that challenge lay the foundation for everything that followed. Learning to live away from home at a young age helped Riley develop resilience, independence, and the ability to support others; qualities that would later serve him well in both leadership roles at school and in military life.
Growing Confidence and Capability
By the time Riley reached the Senior School, something had shifted.
Years 11 to 13 marked a period of personal growth and confidence-building. He took on part-time work at local restaurants near school- an experience he credits with lifting his maturity and work ethic.
At the same time, he became more deeply involved in the life of Dilworth. One of the most meaningful spaces for Riley was the library, where he found both calm and connection. Under the guidance of Librarian Mrs White, the library became a place where he felt safe and supported, so much so that he eventually stepped into the role of Head Librarian.
Riley also speaks highly of the teachers who shaped his journey, including Mr Milne and Mrs Riley, alongside Mrs White. And when Headmaster Dan Reddiex joined in 2019, Riley found further inspiration.
“He didn’t sugarcoat things - he told it as it was,” Riley says. “I really respected that, especially the way he addressed the school’s historical past openly with students.”
Taking Flight: A Career in the Air Force
In Year 13, Riley made a defining decision. Rather than heading to university, he applied to join the Royal New Zealand Air Force at just 17.
“I wanted to learn on the job,” he explains, “and keep the option open to study later - maybe electrical or mechanical engineering.”
That decision has already taken him far.
Riley began his Air Force journey in May 2024 with a 12-week recruitment course, followed by intensive engineering training. Since then, he has moved into avionics, working on the complex electrical systems that keep aircraft flying. His role involves inspecting, repairing, and maintaining vital systems on helicopters and other aircraft, ensuring they remain safe and operational.
Now based at RNZAF Base Ōhakea, Riley is gaining on-the-job experience as a junior avionics mechanic, with further advanced training ahead.
“It’s hands-on, and every day is different,” he says. “One day you’re fixing components, the next you’re getting an aircraft ready for flight.”
Prepared by Boarding Life
Riley credits his time as a Dilworth boarder for making the transition to military life feel natural.
“Being away from home, having structure, working as part of a team - it made the move into the Air Force much easier.”
The discipline, independence, and strong friendships he developed at school mirror the culture he has found in the defence force, where teamwork and trust are essential.
Reflections and Advice
Riley has clear ambitions for the future. In the next five years, he sees himself progressing as an avionics technician, developing his expertise and building a long-term career. Ultimately, he hopes to rise through the ranks to become a corporal and one day, a qualified pilot.
Looking back, Riley is honest about the effort required to succeed, but equally clear about the reward.
“You get out what you put in. It takes a lot of effort, but it’s worth it.”
His message to current students echoes a common theme amongst Dilworth Old Boys:
“Take every opportunity given to you. It will really hold you in good stead in the future.”
From a young boy navigating homesickness to a young man helping keep aircraft in the air, Riley Kingi’s story is one of resilience, growth, and ambition.
It’s a journey that began with opportunity and continues to take him to new heights.