F111s seemed to visit NZ quite often - probably learning how not to fly into mountains. Also, how not to set fire to aircraft while flaring fuel and how not to crash while taking off into very heavy rain also were lessons learnt here. Thankfully no deaths or serious injuries.
I recall driving up the Hutt motorway in Wellington one day in late eighties, and looked to see a F111 crossing the ridge, just as it swept it's wings forward. Amazing sight.
I saw an USAF F111 at Brands Hatch in UK in 1984 putting on a display - I didn't know such a large aircraft could also be so maneuverable.
Certainly a sad day when they were retired and glad to hear some remain.