Our latest inshore patrol vessels, HMNZ Ships ROTOITI, HAWEA, PUKAKI and TAUPO will be used to conduct maritime surveillance operations including border and fisheries patrols. Their crew are to work in close partnership with government agencies such as the Department of Conservation, Ministry of Fisheries, Police, Customs and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
Our larger vessels conduct similar activities, often working with International Armed Force divisions. Activities include interdiction (the military term means to destroy an enemy's line of communication), enforcing embargos or providing a Show of Force.
Warfare Operations
Primarily the Navy is responsible for the maritime defence of New Zealand and its interests. As a global citizen we also need to support our neighbours in times of trouble and, in return, helping out helps New Zealand work towards important things such as free trade agreements.
There are a lot of things going on out there that most people never see, therefore our mandate is to be prepared.
An example of this preparation is the testing of our equipment. In March 2009 the first night live firing of the Maverick missile. The Maverick missile was introduced into service seven years ago by the New Zealand Defence Force and this firing was the first time it has been conducted at night. Watch the Maverick Missile Test-Launch video to see our Seasprites in action.
Surveillance and Interdictions
Whether around New Zealand's coastline or further afield marine surveillance and resultant interdictions are important to our security and prosperity.
For six months during 2008, HMNZS TE MANA was in the Central and Southern Arabian Gulf conducting maritime security and support operations as part of Coalition Task Force 152. The ship operated exclusively within international waters in the Central and Southern Arabian Gulf, a diverse area of around 20,000 square miles stretching from the Straits of Hormuz to a line stretching NE across the Gulf emanating from the border of Kuwait and Saudi Arabia. Read more about HMNZS TE MANA's Arabian Gulf Deployment.
Enforcing Embargos
Embargos are the restriction or prohibition of certain actions. In the Navy we often work with allied military organisations or government and international agencies to enforce embargos around the world. This could include the boarding and legal stoppage of ships or arms. These operations assist in creating a secure environment on the seas, which leads to local and regional stability and prosperity.
Get involved
If this is something you really want to get involved in, then the Royal New Zealand Navy could be the place for you. And, as you can see, there are lots of opportunities to take part in missions around the world.
Find out more about the jobs related to these activities.
> Warfare Officer
> Pilot
> Seaman Combat Specialist
> Combat Systems Specialist
> Electronic Warfare Specialist
> Communications Operator
> Weapon Technician
You can also find out about our most recent missions and stories in our Global Deployment Map or Postcards from Overseas.