Alf's Imperial Army

Alf's Imperial Army was the creation of two students in the early 1970's and continued as a feature in New Zealand public affairs through the 1980's. Although originated at Melbourne University it quickly migrated to New Zealand and spread to several of its major cities and other minor centres. Its roots are in student politics but as its leaders moved on from campus life it evolved from into social commentary more generally.

Noted for its wit and sense of fashion the Army injected humour into election campaigns and provided predominantly young people and especially students with a healthy outlet for their sense of fun and "taking the mickey" out of sections of society.

The Army conducted battles against various groups dressed in Victorian military costume with rules of engagement preventing serious physical harm.

The founders continued their careers in public affairs by turning themselves into the The Wizard of New Zealand and the Duke of Wellington, in which roles they continue even to the date of writing this article (April 2005).

The Army continues in a reduced and less public manner and is now much less a student activity as one for enthusiasts of outdoor gaming involving mock battles.