 Shortly afterwards the Mixed Brigade began quick deployment and defensive manoeuvres in earnest , as fears of invasion grew . In between exercises , further training was undertaken and the battalion also worked to improve fixed defences throughout July and into August and September . These exercises varied in size from company to battalion @-@ level , and involved differing scenarios and enemy forces . In September , a divisional review was undertaken and amidst massive German air raids upon London , the New Zealanders were declared to be ready for front @-@ line service in the event of a German landing . Warning orders for deployment to Egypt were cancelled and the New Zealanders were placed under command of XII Corps , taking up defensive positions in the Folkestone – Dover region . 
