Despite the events of Minqar Qaim, the 2nd New Zealand Division was one of the most complete divisions of the Eighth Army still able to be employed along the El Alamein line. The area was subject to further offensives by Panzer Army Afrika and on 14 and 15 July 1942, during the First Battle of El Alamein, the battalion was involved in an effort to assist the British XXX Corps, by taking part in the Battle of Ruweisat Ridge. The battalion was still commanded by Manson as Burrows had become the permanent commander of the 4th Brigade.