title: No. 31 Squadron RNZAF
text: # No. 31 Squadron RNZAF
  
  No. 31 Squadron is a squadron of the Royal New Zealand Air Force. Formed in December 1943, it was equipped with Grumman TBF Avenger Torpedo bombers.
  
  ## History
  
  31 Squadron was stationed in New Zealand from December 1943 to May 1944. The squadron deployed to Piva Airfield on Bougainville from May to July 1944. The squadron was disbanded in August 1944.
  
  ## Insignia and motto
  
  The badge of 31 Squadron included a carved Greenstone Taniwha above two crossed Mere. The squadron's motto (also included on the badge) was Kia Mataara, Te reo Maori for "Watch".
  
  ## Commanding officers
  
  * Squadron Leader M. Wilkes.
  