Team carried out frequent patrolsThe two dead and six wounded New Zealand soldiers in Afghanistan were part of the Provincial Reconstruction Team, established in 2002 to help maintain security and assist development in the Bamyan province.
The New Zealand Defence Force says as part of that job, they conduct frequent patrols throughout the province.
The team numbering about 140, comprises army, navy and air force personnel.
They also promote reconstruction and assess civil, political and military reform efforts.
The Defence Force says they have helped with the distribution of emergency humanitarian assistance, particularly during the harsh winter months.
The team is based outside the town of Bamian, about 200km northwest of the capital Kabul.
The NZDF team first took over command of the Provincial Reconstruction Team in Bamyan (about 200km northwest of Kabul) in September 2003.
The Defence Force says previous contingents have provided a reassuring security presence, especially during the presidential elections in October 2004 and resulting in a particularly high voter turnout.
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