 In June 1917, the New Zealand Division further distinguished itself in the storming of Messines Ridge and the capture of the village of Messines.On 7 June, after the detonation of nearly 500 tons of explosives in huge mines on both sides of the New Zealand sector, the 2nd and 3rd Brigades scrambled over the top, in and out of shell holes, and up the battered slopes.Carrying the German front line and supports, they were soon into the ruined village.