1our people

issue 195 decemBeR 2015

ACCEPTING THE CHALLENGE—REAR ADMIRAL JOHN MARTIN TAKES THE HELM

EX SOUTHERN KATIPO 2015 A GREAT SUCCESS FOR NZDF

ALL GO FOR THE NAVY’S 75TH BIRTHDAY NEXT YEAR

T e T a u a M o a n a – w a r r i o r s o f T h e s e a

2

DIRECTORY

Published to inform, inspire and entertain serving and former members of the RNZN, their families and friends and the wider Navy community.

Navy Today is the official magazine of the Royal New Zealand Navy. Published by Defence Public Affairs, Wellington. Navy Today is now in its eighteenth year of publication.

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EDITOR: David McLoughlin

Defence Public Affairs

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contents NAVY TODAY ISSUE 195 2015

06

04

09

COvER IMAGE:

The incoming Chief of Navy, RADM Jack Steer, accepts the Challenge. See article starting page nine. Photo POSCS Chris Weissenborn, NZDF Devonport photographer.

04 EX SOUTHERN KATIPO 2015

06 RNZN HELPS THE RAN

08 MCMT IN THE USA

09 CHANGE OF COMMAND FOR CN

12 OPERATION NEPTUNE UPDATE

16 YEAR IN REVIEW

1our people

issue 195 decemBeR 2015

ACCEPTING THE CHALLENGE—REAR ADMIRAL JOHN MARTIN TAKES THE HELM

EX SOUTHERN KATIPO 2015 A GREAT SUCCESS FOR NZDF

ALL GO FOR THE NAVY’S 75TH BIRTHDAY NEXT YEAR

T e T a u a M o a n a – w a r r i o r s o f T h e s e a

24 WOMEN IN DEFENCE EXPERIENCE

25 WON REPORT

26 FLEET PROGRESS

18 BCT 15/02 GRADUATION

3yours aye

It is a privilege to serve as the chief of Navy as we continue a journey that began more than a hundred years ago to assure the nation’s maritime security. That journey resulted in the

establishment of our Navy 75 years ago next year and provides a legacy of service, experience, national expectation and ambition with which to take our Navy into the future.

Our departing chief of Navy, Admiral Steer—our longest serving Flag officer—served for a significant part of that 75 years. He now has the opportunity to turn from the sea to enjoy the fruits of his labour. He has served his country, the Navy and his shipmates in a fashion that continues to provide example. I am sure you will join with me in wishing him all the best, acknowledge the support and commitment that his family displayed and thank him for his service.

It is with pride that I now lead this inspirational Navy—where its most senior officers commanded our largest joint and combined exercise for many years, ex Southern Katipo. Where its sailors are prepared to face the icy waters of the Southern Ocean, or are even now conducting operations, working shoulder to shoulder with other Navies across the globe. All of them are talented New Zealanders serving their country with distinction.

It’s a great time to be in the Navy. The Navy enjoys top level support; the maritime dimension is well understood in government, and it is acknowledged that a well balanced and equipped defence Force – including a Navy – that can meet the challenges the country faces is essential. We are a young and increasingly diverse bunch of New Zealanders, who are the unashamed experts in the delivery of military effects at sea, armed with competencies unique to the Navy and unique in New Zealand. We operate in the harshest parts of the planet, whether in our offshore zone, or waters from the Arabian Peninsula to Antarctica. Our people are trained to deal with their environment and use their ships to deliver the effects required.

Our job will get more difficult as we conduct operations where information and data will be used by us and against us in new ways; where our dependency on space - whether it be water space or outer space - creates opportunity and vulnerability; where to be successful we will be part of a much larger team. The core of this team are our ships and shipmates, surrounded by the One Force—the NZ defence Force—and increasingly, other government agencies. Our team depends on family and whanau for vital support now and into the future.

Above: RADM Martin, his wife Susan Martin and Chief of Defence Force LTGEN Tim Keating after the new CN’s promotion to Rear Admiral on 25 November.

So, turning to the future, we need to build on the energy of those who have gone before and those who are in the Navy now and generate the Navy that is able to serve the country with courage, commitment and comradeship in the immediate term and will be ready to answer the unforeseen challenges of the future.

The decade ahead will be an exciting one for our Navy. To be successful in the future we have to continue to develop to meet the evolving challenges brought about by technology and, more generally, society. The Navy after the one we have now will comprise modernised Anzac frigates and replacements for mANAWANUI and eNdeAVOUR. They, their current sister ships and our sailors and officers represent the navy that we will deliver in 2020.

“Navy 2020” is our plan to get us there. By then we will be in the right shape by focusing on three Strategic Goals: Operational Focus, enabled by Workforce excellence, underpinned by Organisational Agility.

• OperationalFocusmeansthatatalltimestheNavyisfocussedon conducting maritime operations at sea. We are the NZdF’s maritime experts. No one else can do what we do. This goal is to ensure that our seamanship, tactics and operations are second to none.

• ToachievetheOperationalFocus,weneedanexcellentworkforce— the right number of suitably qualified and experienced people to operate our ships and provide the support they need ashore.

• Highqualityshipsandpeopleneedanexcellentandagileinfrastructure. Not only physical infrastructure like devonport Naval Base, but the way the Navy is organised and managed.

As your chief of Navy I need to also focus on the ‘navy after next’. Within the next fifteen short years we will accept new warships, weapons, air platforms and a whole lot more new people into our Navy. The people who will command, manage and use those systems have joined the Navy and are being trained using the tried and true methods that have been developed over the years. Our current approach will not cut it if we are to ensure that they are to have the training, skills and preparation to use them in the ships on the complex and challenging missions we foresee. This will require energetic and committed leadership from us all as we transform ourselves, as we have always done, to be ready for the future.

I chose to be the in the Navy, I chose to put my name forward to be the chief of Navy and it is my privilege to have been accepted in this important role.

I undertake to you all that I will work with you to develop a strong and reliable Navy that delivers.

yours aye CHIEF OF NAVY Rear Admiral John Martin, ONZM

4 ex souThern kaTipo 15

exercise sk 15 successfully tests nzdf capabilitiesMore than 2000 military personnel supported by an array of naval, land, and air assets spent much of November conducting a fictional military campaign across the top of the South Island as part of Exercise Southern Katipo 2015.

SK15 finished on 23 November. It was designed to test the New Zealand defence Force’s ability to work with other militaries in responding to humanitarian and security

emergencies in the Southwest Pacific.

“SK15 affirmed the defence Force’s ability to work alongside its partners in providing humanitarian assistance and responding to requests for support in managing a security situation in the Southwest Pacific region,” said major General Tim Gall, commander Joint Forces New Zealand.

The training scenario saw New Zealand deploying a military contingent to help restore law and order in a fictional South Pacific country called Becara. The multinational combined Joint Task Force led by the NZdF conducted support and humanitarian

Above: Three of the ships in Exercise Southern Katipo 2015—HMNZS CANTERBURY, HMNZS TE KAHA and FNS PRAIRIAL from Tahiti—taking part in a Photo Exercise.

Below: Two landing craft pass.

5ex souThern kaTipo 15

Clockwise from top: Some of the New Zealand troops who took part in Southern Katipo 15.

Some big aircraft took part in SK 15—here is a USAF Boeing C-17 Globemaster.

Heavily laden landing craft.

operations, including the evacuation of internally displaced persons, throughout the month-long operation.

The towns of Westport, murchison and Havelock, and the remote Titirangi Bay and Okiwi Bay in the marlborough Sounds hosted personnel from New Zealand and eight other countries, namely Australia, canada, Fiji, France, Papua New Guinea, Tonga, the United Kingdom and the United States. Hundreds of residents from Westport to the marlborough Sounds posed as protesters, internally displaced people, and foreign nationals in need of urgent evacuation.

mAJGeN Gall acknowledged parallels between the training scenario and the crises in Bougainville and the Solomon Islands, where the NZdF has sent troops in response to requests to address widespread unrest.

“The realistic scenario tested the NZdF’s capabilities and it is important that we continually train alongside our partners.

“SK15 also provided an opportunity to exercise the Anzac Ready Reaction Force, which is an initiative between the Australian and New Zealand governments to plan and exercise for joint emergency responses in the region.

“Our personnel are well-trained and ready to respond to any crisis at home or overseas. Through countless operations and exercises here and internationally, we have shown that we are able to operate effectively alongside other militaries.

“I also want to take this opportunity to thank the community for hosting us as well as acknowledging those who volunteered with some of the activities,” said mAJGeN Gall.

SK15 marked the first time since over a decade that Fiji has taken part in a joint exercise with the NZdF.

New Zealand agencies supporting the exercise included the New Zealand customs Service, ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, New Zealand Police, ministry of Primary Industries, New Zealand Transport Authority, Immigration New Zealand, ministry of Health, district Health Boards New Zealand, Red cross, Amnesty

International, and St John New Zealand.

6 anZaC spiriT

Three Royal New Zealand Navy personnel have been aboard

the Royal Australian Navy frigate HmNZS meLBOURNe,

patrolling the middle east region as part of Operation

manitou, the Australian contribution to the multi-national

combined maritime Forces (cmF) in the Indian Ocean and

Arabian Gulf.

SLT Sophie Going, along with Leading Seaman combat Specialists

(LScS) Jack Walters and Jordan mcHugh, are contributing to the

ship’s work in intercepting narcotics used to help fund international

terrorism.

SLT Going said her posting to meLBOURNe as an Officer of the

Watch was an extension to her 12-month posting to Australia for

her Phase IV training, allowing her to gain operational experience.

“Phase IV is the last stage of training for an Officer of the Watch,”

she said. “It includes a month of studying warfare theory followed

by five months training in the bridge simulator at HmAS WATSON

before the final assessment.”

SLT Going joined the RNZN in 2012 and has been to Australia

on a previous posting to work on Armidale class patrol boats.

After more training in New Zealand on other ships, including the

multirole vessel HmNZS cANTeRBURY, she returned to Australia.

She said it was exciting to be a part of Operation manitou and have

the opportunity to be on an RAN warship. “It’s was also nice to have

some other Kiwis on board to help soften the blow for the Aussies

at the end of the World cup.

“The mission we are conducting on meLBOURNe is extremely

important because we are helping to stop the trafficking of illegal

drugs. The first boardings and searches of suspected vessels were a

highlight and it’s exciting to be doing what we have trained to do.”

during meLBOURNe’s first patrol of 2015, the crew intercepted,

boarded and searched a fishing dhow suspected of illegal activity in

the Arabian Sea on 1 October. during the search, 427kgs of heroin

were seized and brought onboard for identification and disposal.

The value of the drugs was close to $NZ135 million.

The main role of LScS Walters and LScS mcHugh is to drive the

sea boats used by the boarding parties. Their qualifications are

equivalent to RAN boatswains, so they are happy to jump in

and help.

LScS Walters said he was excited to work with his counterparts

aboard HmAS meLBOURNe.

“It’s very special because this is 2015 and the Anzac centenary. The

spirit of 100 years of Australian and New Zealand forces working

together is still going strong.” he said.

Top: LSCS Jack Walters, SLT Sophie Going and LSCS Jordan McHugh prepare for another day at sea aboard HMAS MELBOURNE in the Arabian Sea.

Above: SLT Going takes a bearing while maintaining watch on a fishing dhow.

rnzn Helps tHe ran WitH Middle east druG busts

7our peopleanZaC spiriT

Right: LSCS Jordan McHugh drives a Rigid Hull Inflatable Boat during a boarding party operation in the Arabian Sea.

Below: SLT Going monitors one of HMAS MELBOURNE’s sea boats.

This is LScS Walters’ first operational tour in the middle east since

joining the RNZN in 2008 straight out of high school.

“I am proud of the work we are doing stopping the funds for

terrorism, and I have met some great people onboard, who will

be mates for life. The Aussies are top blokes and the way they

have treated the New Zealanders on board is a true testament to

Australian hospitality,” he said.

LScS mcHugh is a former civilian diving instructor with a love of

the sea who has found the RNZN to be a natural fit for his desire

for a career on the water. He began his busy naval career in 2006 in

the survey ship HmNZS ReSOLUTION. He then transferred to the

tanker HmNZS eNdeAVOUR for a Pacific Rim trip, which visited

Singapore for exercise Bersama Shield and then to South Korea,

canada, the United States, Hawaii and Tahiti.

He also worked on patrol boats before transferring to HmNZS

OTAGO for fisheries patrols on two deployments to Antarctica.

He said it was a fantastic experience to be deployed to the

Arabian Gulf. “The operation has been varied, which keeps sea life

interesting and the crew is great,” he said.

meLBOURNe is on her eighth deployment to the middle east

region and is the 61st rotation of a RAN vessel in the region since

the first Gulf War in 1991. HmNZS Te KAHA did a similar earlier

this year.

8 MCMT

Above: The M80 STILETTO.

Below: The MCMT members who went to Naval Air Station Patuxent River, from left POHST Thomas Nuttall, CPOCSS Gary Fisher, WODR Brendon Johnson, POCSS Wetini Reti and LHST Jason Sage.

By LHST Jason Sage, AUv Operator, MCMT

Five members of the Navy’s mine counter measures Team flew to the USA in September for the Technical cooperation Panel (TTcP) 15, an exercise/trial hosted at the US Naval Air Station

Patuxent River (NAS PAX), Lexington Park, maryland.

Through the display of various emerging Autonomous Underwater Vehicle-related technologies, the objective of the TTcP was to increase effectiveness in mine-hunting exercises, ordnance surveys and maritime archaeology and infrastructure inspection (bridges, shoreline, sea walls, and the like).

The main goal was to accelerate the relevance and utility of emerging technologies by bringing together operators, developers and stakeholders to jointly explore AUV technologies in a common at-sea environment.

There were over 26 technology teams and unmanned systems with more than 150 personal participating.

Our task for this trip was to join up with the Royal Navy maritime Autonomous System Trials Team (mASTT) from HmNB Portsmouth as observers, to have exposure to new software, new AUVs and to be placed into teams to establish best practices through comparison between the two nations.

mASTT is comprised of personnel who conduct trials with AUVs (RemUS 100, 600 and IVeR) prior to handing them over to the operational units within the Royal Navy.

As we are a small Navy, we do not have a team to conduct these trials so we have to conduct them within mcmT prior to accepting a new piece of equipment.

Our daily routine started at 0600 with a consolidation brief and intentions for the day’s taskings, which were fluid to achieve exercise outputs.

Our taskings consisted of

• Beingintegratedintotheboat’screwonMBHAZARDwhileconducting multiple Remus 100 and IVeR 3 missions in the operating area.

• AssistingtheHydrographicLeadingHandwithtrialsofhisAutonomous Surface Kayak concept which had the capability to be controlled via Wi-Fi from a shore station while conducting single beam and side scan surveys.

• Coxswainoftheinflatabletoconductboattransfersofstoresandpersonnel to achieve daily taskings.

during this time we also got some exposure to a medium weight AUV—Remus 600—with Australian scientists who were left short-handed. In true Anzac fashion we gave assistance with the launch and recovery. We also talked how this capability could be used and be beneficial in our future Navy.

WOdR Brendon Johnson and I were given an opportunity to spend a day on m80 STILeTTO. This vessel was an amazing piece of stealth-type technology, a great working platform that is run by the US military with civilians as crew.

during the exercise this was the command vessel for the exercise, where the scientists were based while monitoring and controlling the water space in our operating area. This was a great exposure to see how all the technology works together and gave us a very good understanding on what they were trying to achieve for this exercise/trial.

In conclusion this trip was very beneficial for the mcmT and the integration with mASTT was a great way to share knowledge and to see how we can both best operate in all different environments around the world.

McMt MeMbers Gain valuable autonoMous underWater

veHicle experience in us visit

9

Top of page: The formal handover of Command between RADM Martin (left) and RADM Steer.

Above: The korowai is placed on RADM Martin.

Rousing, affectionatecHanGe of coMMand cereMony for

cHief of navy

By David McLoughlin, editor, Navy Today

Hundreds of Navy officers and ratings formed in divisions on the North Yard parade ground of devonport Naval Base on a humid monday 30 November for an impressive, at

times emotional farewell to RAdm Jack Steer as chief of Navy and a welcome to RAdm John martin as new cN.

The ceremony was steeped in naval heritage and pageantry, with bands marching and playing, flags flying, an honour guard, a 17-gun salute to the outgoing cN and a Seasprite flyover.

In the tradition of the regular handover of command on a ship, RAdm martin walked up to RAdm Steer and said “I have the Navy,” to which RAdm Steer replied “You have the Navy.”

Guests included defence minister Gerry Brownlee, Kiingi Tuheitia, chief of defence Force LTGeN Tim Keating, Secretary of defence Helene Quilter. commander Joint Forces NZ mAJGeN Tim Gall, chief of Army mAJGeN Peter Kelly and chief of Air Force AVm mike Yardley.

The ceremony was moved to the North Yard from Gambia Square because so many people wanted to attend.

After his arrival, RAdm Steer went to the dais to receive a general salute. After prayers, RAdm Steer then addressed his Navy for the last time as cN.

Cn ChanGe of CoMManD

10 Cn ChanGe of CoMManD

Top: RADM Martin accepts the challenge.

Above: At Te Taua Moana Marae after the ceremony, CN engages in a hongi with CAPT Maxine Lawes, CO HMNZS PHILOMEL.

RAdm martin came forward to report for duty and said: “I have the Navy.” RAdm Steer replied: “You have the Navy.” RAdm martin’s flag was then broken on the flag pole.

RAdm Steer’s korowai—the cloak which is cN’s Symbol of command—was removed and put on RAdm martin. RAdm martin presented RAdm Steer with his personal car flag.

The Navy Pipes and drums band marched on to the parade ground and played a new tune, Rear Admiral Steer, composed by the band for the occasion. As they played, two Navy Seasprite helicopters flew low overhead from north to south. The Navy maori cultural Group arrived and began a farewell haka for

rear adMiral JoHn Martin onzM

Before assuming office as chief of Navy on 30 November, RAdm John martin led capability development for the

New Zealand defence Force, helping to shape and design current and future capabilities across the NZdF to meet the needs of Government.

That role involved the leadership of the defence Force’s capability Branch with a diverse workforce of 250 staff, and the maintenance of a close and unique relationship with the ministry of defence.

His previous post was as commander the RNZN Fleet as the maritime component commander, from march 2011 to September 2013. He was responsible for readiness of the Fleet and specialist teams to deliver on the Navy’s mission, outputs and outcomes. This included capability generation, training, evaluation, and all operational activities that the fleet undertook. He was responsible to the commander Joint Forces New Zealand for the command and conduct of maritime operations and provision of the naval contribution to NZdF Outputs.

Born in dunedin and educated in Wellington, RAdm martin joined the RNZN in 1979 as a radar plotter.

during his career he served in many Navy ships fulfilling the functions of bridge watch keeper, maritime air traffic controller instructor, frigate navigator, warfare officer and commander. He has held a number of operational staff appointments and was involved in the preparation and deployment of naval units to the Arabian Gulf and mururoa Atoll.

A career highlight was his time in command of HmNZS Te KAHA from 2001 until 2003. The ship undertook a number of deployments to Australia, South east Asia, china, Korea, and Japan. Following a mission to the Gulf of Oman for maritime Interception Operations, RAdm martin was made an Officer of the New Zealand Order of merit (ONZm).

He is a graduate and fellow of the centre for defence and Strategic Studies, canberra, and has a master of Arts (Strategic Studies) and a Post Graduate diploma in Business and Administration.

He is married to Susan martin and lives in Wellington. They have three adult sons, and he enjoys fly fishing, walking and sailing.

bioGrapHy

“It’s been a wonderful ride this past 43 years and the best thing about it have been the men and women of the Navy,” he said. “Remember, we are here to serve the people of New Zealand, something we all do each day. “You are all valued members of the NZDF, Navy 2020 is to give the Navy an enhanced combat capability to carry our CDF’s intentions, but it’s also about guns and boats and having fun.”

11Cn ChanGe of CoMManD

Clockwise from Top: RADM Martin is congratulated by WOWTR Lynette Bokany.

CDF and the Secretary of Defence Arrive.

Farewell haka to RADM Steer.

RADM Steer is driven away.

Caps off to departing RADM Steer.

RADM Martin with Kiingi Tuheitia.

RAdm Steer that many of the officers and ratings joined in. RAdm Steer and his family were wiping away tears as the haka proceeded and finished. RAdm Steer, escorted by RAdm martin, was then piped off the parade, made his final farewells and was driven away as the cultural group sung Haere Ra.

As RAdm martin returned, the maori cultural Group laid down the challenge to him, placing the wero on the ground. RAdm martin accepted it. He was then welcomed with a rousing Haere mai.

Taking the dais, RAdm martin addressed his Navy for the first time as cN.

“I can’t help but being overwhelmed by the farewell you gave to Admiral Steer and your welcome to me,” he said. “You are an inspirational sight. This is very impressive,” he added, referring to the assembled divisions and guard members in their finest whites.

“It is a privilege to be here as chief of Navy and to support our New Zealand defence Force as One Force. It is a great time to be in the Navy, You are a talented and increasingly diverse bunch of New Zealanders. You operate in the harshest environments on the planet, from Antarctica to the Arabian Sea. Next year will be a great year to celebrate the Navy with the people of New Zealand.

“It’s a privilege now to work with you and for you. Our Navy will be ready for the future changes. It’s a maritime future. It’s ours to grow and own.”

12

Above: Memorial to the loss of HMS PURIRI off Whangarei Heads in April 1941.

12 operaTion nepTune

By CAPT Andy Watts. Director, Operation Neptune

Planning for the Navy’s 75th Anniversary next year has really accelerated since the Op Neptune update in the October Navy Today.

We have received 420 registrations from ex naval men and women for the Naval Base Veteran’s day on 22 January, which is tremendously satisfying for our team. In conjunction with HmNZS PHILOmeL, particularly the events Team, we have put together what we think will be a great day for our ex naval men and women—a fitting acknowledgement of their service and recognition that no matter where or when they served, they are still part of the naval family.

Several veterans of the Second World War have registered, including former LT Peter Hindle, RNZNVR, of mt eden, who served as gunnery officer in a frigate on Russian convoy escort. I doubt there’s much anyone could tell Peter about courage, commitment and comradeship under the most extreme conditions imaginable; he and other veterans of his generation will be very special guests on the day.

I would like to invite any officer or rating (senior or junior) who would like to be a special escort for honoured veterans like Peter to advise WOmAA Trevor Smith by email, with cO’s approval. I would particularly like to invite an OOW or PWO to volunteer to act as Peter Hindle’s host and accompany him throughout his visit.

Arrangements for the Women At Sea seminar are progressing well, with a search underway for a suitable venue. Our very generous Presenting Sponsor, Westpac, will take part in the seminar. One of their senior leaders (a woman) will be a keynote speaker and a number of their female staff will participate in seminar activity. This achieves two things. Firstly, it acknowledges Westpac’s wonderful generosity, and secondly it provides us with commercial sector perspectives on issues around equal opportunities for women that will add greatly to the quality of the seminar experience for our own people.

In addition to Westpac, we’ve been fortunate enough to secure commitments from a range of other sponsors. The next Navy Today Neptune update will feature a list of sponsors, as it’s important that we acknowledge their generosity and that we know who they are. A number of sponsors have been provided with various types of naval experience by our Leadership development Group, very ably supported by the PHILOmeL Boats Squadron. The feedback has been exceptional. The work of the Boats Squadron and LdG has thus made a very significant contribution to Neptune, and I thank

all concerned for their hard work and dedication. In the previous Navy Today Neptune update I asked for a “Team RNZN” effort, and that’s what you’ve given us.

A plan is emerging to commemorate the loss of HmS PURIRI after she struck a mine off Whangarei Heads in April 1941. The commanding Officer and four ratings were lost; they were amongst the only New Zealand servicemen lost in New Zealand territory due to enemy action in the Second World War. It’s appropriate that the Littoral Warfare Support Group should have the lead on this commemoration, and a wreath laying over the wreck site from HmNZS mANAWANUI on or near the anniversary of PURIRI’S loss is under consideration, together with a ceremony at the memorial ashore at Whangarei Heads. The NePTUNe team and the LWSG command Teams will meet to discuss arrangements prior to christmas.

Plans for The cloud on Auckland’s city waterfront are also progressing well. Our event managers have presented us with a leading edge concept that will provide visitors with an experience that illustrates the role our Navy plays in protecting New Zealand’s interests, by highlighting our national reliance on the sea for our prosperity and security. The display will use a physical environment over two levels and leading edge multi-media technology to highlight our history and our values. There will be a “sailor’s centre”, which we hope to set up as a café with wifi and Twitter feeds so that visitors and others can see what their friends are up to ashore—feeds will be moderated, of course.

2016 Will be a year to reMeMber for tHe rnzn

13operaTion nepTune

Another very important event that is starting to take shape is the closing ceremony—the memorial service for HmS NePTUNe at the National War memorial in december 2016. We had always planned for this to be significant, but now we’ve decided that we’re going to be original too. The ceremony will incorporate traditional naval ceremonial, including the maori cultural element which is now so important to our identity. However, it will be at night, because that’s when NePTUNe struck the mines that sank her. We’re looking at a light show to be projected against the carillon, and at various other ways in which we can convey to an audience a sense of what it must have been like to be aboard NePTUNe that night.

A detailed programme for the “Navy Players” theatrical tour is being worked out in conjunction with councils around the country. We’ll publish details of the programme soon so that you can encourage friends and family in your home towns and districts to go and see it. Ticket prices will be nominal, with proceeds going to local charities.

If your ship has a visit to a New Zealand port planned for 2016, you can assume that the visit will have a Neptune theme. Planning guidance has been issued to commanding Officers and Regional Naval Officers, and the Neptune team is available to coordinate support.

As with all things naval, the key to success is communication. I’ll be visiting every ship, HQ, shore establishment and Reserve division over the coming weeks to talk to command Teams about Neptune plans, so that they can in turn keep our people informed via the divisional system.

The team approach I talked about above has worked very well so far, as we’ve seen with the superb work on Neptune-related events that has been done by the ships’ companies of HmNZ Ships Te KAHA (TV documentary filming) and WeLLINGTON (Solomon Islands campaign commemoration, TV documentary filming), the LdG and PHILOmeL Boats. If we keep this up, there’s no doubt

whatever that 2016 will be a year to remember. Top: Newspaper clipping of the lost ship and dead crew.

There will of course be many other things happening. We propose a “host ship” arrangement, where each of our ships is assigned as host to one or more visiting ships. I see host ships providing hospitality and support to our visitors on a more personal scale than the official programme will allow, which will do much to further the “relationships” aims of Neptune.

10–12 nov: Visiting ships anchor Inner Gulf for border clearance and briefings.

12–17 nov: Maritime security exercise, details to come.

17 nov: Ships enter Auckland in groups led by an RNZN unit. Seven ships anchor in Review Line, remainder proceed to berths at DNB and Ports of Auckland.

18 nov: CBD street march—same route as for last December’s Battle of River Plate street march.

19 nov: Review by His Excellency the Governor General. On completion of the Review, ships at anchor in Review Line will move to alongside berths.

19 nov: All ranks function, The Cloud.

20 nov: Ships in Ports of Auckland berths open to visitors, Divine Service, Holy Trinity Cathedral.

21 nov: INR Sports Tournament, Ngataringa. Our PTIs are planning this along similar lines as Champion of the Navy, but bigger. It will be combined with a “Sounds of Summer” experience for our own people and our visitors.

22 nov: Ship’s disperse.

THE HEADLINE EvENTS ARE AS FOLLOWS:

Plans for the International Naval Review are steadily advancing.

14 news

fisH and sHips aboard HMnzs canterbury 2016

confidential neW nzdf Helpline

Waterside traininG aid Work underWay

Following a successful event in 2014, the Wellington

city mission is delighted to again partner with the

Royal New Zealand Navy for a fish and chip lunch

aboard HmNZS cANTeRBURY.

Lunch will be under a marquee on the flight deck

of cANTeRBURY, at Queens Wharf, Wellington, on

Friday 12 February 2016. The menu has been designed

by Wellington chef Ruth Pretty, and guests will be

entertained by Navy musicians.

Fish & Ships sees two humanitarian organisations working

together to raise funds to assist those most in need in

Greater Wellington. HmNZS cANTeRBURY is also known

for its great work in times of need, in New Zealand and

across the Pacific.

Like cANTeRBURY, the city mission prides itself on being

open to anyone who needs assistance, regardless of

religious belief, age, ethnicity or social background. The

mission’s four programmes (Families, Youth, Independence,

and Seniors) assist a range of people to identify and address

underlying issues, and create positive outcomes. The

mission also operates an elder care residential facility, Kemp

Home & Hospital.

Funds raised from this special event will ensure The mission

can continue providing its services to those who need

help, when they need it most. Tickets are now available via

Ticketek (www.ticketek.co.nz).

For more information about the city mission, please visit

www.wellingtoncitymission.org.nz.

christmas can be the most stressful part of the year for some people. It brings an expectation of gifts, holidays and feasting, all of which costs money and stretches budgets.

There is an expectation sometimes that friends and family will be there to offer support, but this is often not the case.

many Service personnel are being posted to another part of the country and need to relocate families and property. Some have recently returned from operations, others from long exercises or courses. It has been a high-tempo year for much of the NZdF, and people are tired.

In recognition of the stresses NZdF personnel can face, the chief of defence Force has announced the introduction of a new 0800 helpline for members of the NZdF and their families. The confidential service 0800 NZdF 4 U (0800 693 348) is available 24 hours a day every day of the year for a range of issues including depression, anger, anxiety, and family violence.

As a Navy, the platforms we carry out the majority of our business on are what separate us from normal, average office jobs. Being able to launch and recover a sea boat,

use an accommodation ladder, save a ‘man Overboard’ using a Swimmer of the Watch Gantry, scale the side of a ship via a pilot ladder or lift a load of stores from a larger platform to a smaller, often unstable boat are all tasks we must perform safely, alongside those everyday other aspects of our jobs.

How we train for those tasks has traditionally been conducted at sea, which can be unnerving given the environmental conditions, the pressure for the ship to return to operational capacity as soon as possible and all with inexperienced personnel who may have only recently joined the Navy and the ship itself.

In the next 12 months, the Seamanship Precinct in the devonport Naval Base South Yard, which currently already holds the new Seamanship Training Aids (STA) Facility in the Bill morley Building, will expand once again, this time out into the Auckland Harbour with a new training platform that can replicate seamanship tasks in a realistic working environment.

With the tender period nearing completion companies have been asked to provide an innovative Waterside Training Aid that can house a Vestdavit davit, a HIAB crane, an Offshore Patrol Vessel Accommodation Ladder, a Swimmer of the Watch Gantry and a Pilot Ladder. This platform, pontoon or wharf structure will go in the place of the Syncrolift wharf, which will be demolished as part of the project.

This facility will complement the land side STA by allowing personnel of all ranks and trades to conduct ship ‘On Job Training’ on training aids that can be used multiple times for repetitive training, all before we send people out to sea in operational units.

Being excellent at seamanship is part of our core purpose and something that places us above other maritime organisations. In addition, being the Best Small Nation Navy in the World involves having suitably trained and experienced people operating our ships, at all levels. This new facility, combined with the landside STA aims to deliver world class training to ensure the safety of our

people at sea.

By LT CDR Ange Barker, Reclaiming Seamanship Excellence Programme Manager

Above: The waterside area where the new facility will be installed.

15news

The new Philomel Landing at devonport Naval Base was officially opened on 17 November by the commanding Officer of HmNZS PHILOmeL, cAPT maxine Lawes. This new

facility, which provides access to the base from Auckland harbour, replaces the original Philomel Landing which was built in 1965. Over the years Philomel Landing has welcomed royalty, state visitors, foreign government and military officials and other dignitaries to devonport Naval Base. The new facility will no doubt be welcoming visitors to the home of the RNZN for many years to come.

neW landinG opens at devonport naval base

Top of page: On the landing after the ceremony.

Left: visitors at the ceremony.

Right: CAPT Lawes cuts the ribbon.

Bottom: General view of the new landing.

16 year in reView

01 02

0605

07

02

1. Leading Seaman combat Specialist Leon Reilly—posted to HmNZS eNdeAVOUR—is the Navy’s Sailor of the Year for 2014. His award was announced during champion of the Navy just before christmas. 2. The 175th anniversary of the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi saw a bigger Navy presence at the commemorations than usual on 6 February and the days leading to it. Three ships were present— HmNZS Te KAHA, HmNZS cANTeRBURY and HmNZS ROTOITI. The ships provided platoons for the parades on the Treaty Grounds and a charter Parade in Paihia on Waitangi day where the Whangarei, Kaipara and Far North councils conferred a charter on the Navy. In this photo, the Governor General LTGeN the Rt Hon Sir Jerry mateparae inspects the Guard. 3. The NZdF embarked on a major Humanitarian Aid and disaster Relief (HAdR) mission in mid-march following cyclone Pam, one of the biggest tropical cyclones in the South Pacific in recent years. The Vanuatu archipelago was the centre of our aid efforts, with many c-130 Hercules flights taking supplies there, and the sealift ship HmNZS cANTeRBURY taking many Army engineers, Army trucks, emergency supplies, two Seasprite helicopters, the Navy’s maritime Survey Team and civilian medical and other aid workers including members of the NZ Fire Service as a truly NZdF One-Force Task Group. The photo shows cANTeRBURY arriving in Vanuatu. 4. NZdF personnel commemorated the 100th anniversary of the first Anzac day around New Zealand and around the world in places as diverse as Gallipoli, darwin, Jerusalem, Washington dc, Papua New Guinea, canberra and Rarotonga, often alongside their Australian comrades. chief of defence Force LTGeN Tim Keating attended the dawn Service and the New Zealand memorial Service at chunuk Bair at Gallipoli. HmNZS Te KAHA was present at the dawn Service. The photo shows the ship

YEAR IN REvIEW: The Royal New Zealand Navy had a very busy 2015. Here are some highlights.

17year in reView

03

08

at canakkale. 5. cPOScS Henry matangi went to the aid of a woman stuck on busy Lake Road devonport with a flat tyre in may. She had no spare, so after pushing the car off the road, he went to a car yard and got one and changed wheels for her. He also got sweets for her children. A Navy Facebook post about cPOScS matangi’s good deed had the biggest reach of any such post, with almost 160,000 views, 5400 likes, 189 shares around the world and hundreds of positive comments. The photo is of him changing a wheel. 6. LT Simon Wasley—who dived from HmNZS OTAGO in to massive seas north of New Zealand on 8 July 2014 to rescue the crew of the yacht dJANGO— was awarded the distinguished Service decoration in the June Queen’s Birthday Honours. From left, LT Wasley and the yachties he dived in to rescue, Andrew cooke, Bex Hielkema and dJANGO skipper Ben costello aboard HmNZS OTAGO. 7. In a first for the Royal New Zealand Navy, the frigate HmNZS Te KAHA seized almost 260 kilograms of heroin worth $NZ235 million from drug smugglers aboard two dhows in the Western Indian Ocean in June, while on patrol as part of combined Task Force. The photo shows members of the boarding party on one of the dhows. 8. HmNZS WeLLINGTON P55 hosted a reception at devonport Naval Base on 15 October for as many previous commanding officers of the present WeLLINGTON and her namesake frigate HmNZS WeLLINGTON F69 as could attend. From left: cdRe John Peddie, cdRe Alastair clayton-Greene; RAdm Peter mcHaffie; cdRe mike Wardlaw; RAdm Jack Steer; cdR Paul Gilkison, cAPT Andy Watts, LT cdR Rob mccaw, cAPT dave mcewan and LT cdR Graham macLean, who is WeLLINGTON’s present commanding officer.

04

18 BCT 15/02 GraDuaTion

proud faMilies and trainees at bct 15/02 Graduation parade

By Claire Rennie

Not the flash of countless cameras, nor the tears of family

members, could break the stride of the newest members

of the Royal New Zealand Navy as they marched past

family and friends at the 6 November graduation ceremony for

Basic common Training (BcT) 15/02 at devonport Naval Base. It

wasn’t until after the close of the 90-minute ceremony that the

professional composure of the graduates turned to elation, and

35 people who had been strangers just 18 weeks ago hugged and

cheered as family rushed onto the parade ground to be reunited

with the competent naval ratings their children had become.

during a stunning Auckland morning, chief of Navy, RAdm

Jack Steer, thanked the families present for allowing their sons

and daughters to join the RNZN and made a promise that they

would be looked after. He also reminded families that despite the

growth the graduates already had achieved, and will continue to

experience, they would always need the support of their families

and friends.

The reviewing officer, former chief of defence Force, Vice Admiral

Sir Somerford Teagle (Ret), said that, on his return 10 years after

leaving the NZdF, it was what hadn’t changed that pleased him

most—the commitment of graduates and their families to the

service of New Zealand. He highlighted the importance of a role in

19BCT 15/02 GraDuaTion

Top: The new family, elated at the end of 18 weeks of hard training.

Far left: vADM Sir Somerford Teagle inspecting the guard.

Centre: Family photo session after the ceremony with OSA Darnel Eparaima.

Above: BCT 15/05 on the march at the parade ground.

the service of others and challenged graduates to aim high leaving

them with advice to always set the highest of standards, even if

you don’t meet them all the time.

Following prize giving, the graduates stole the show,

demonstrating skills learned during their training, including

firefighting, rope skills, teamwork, physical fitness and

marksmanship. The demonstrations drew more than a few gasps

from those in attendance. The ceremony ended with a rousing

Navy haka before the much-changed graduates were reunited with

proud and emotional family and friends.

cPOmTO Grant Gaffaney of the Recruit Training Squadron said

that, during the course, the trainees faced numerous physical,

mental, and spiritual challenges, designed to develop their

leadership skills and resilience.

The confident graduates were testament to the challenges they

had faced and overcome during the gruelling, yet rewarding 18

weeks. The 35 men and women from all corners of New Zealand

had undertaken and conquered one of life’s great rights of

passages, and one experienced by only a few.

It’s hard to walk away from such a ceremony without feeling that

you had been part of something special and the final words of

advice from VAdm Sir Somerford Teagle ringing in your ears: “Win,

lose or draw, your Navy career will stick with you all your life.”

20 BCT 15/02 GraDuaTion

The highest achiever among the recruits of BcT 15/02 is

19-year-old OmT Aaron crabb, from Palmerston North.

OmT crabb received the Spencer Tewsley cup for Best

All Round Basic common Trainee during the awards section of

the BcT graduation parade.

cPOmTO Grant Gaffaney of the Recruit Training Squadron

said: “Aaron stood out because of his hard work ethic, positive

attitude, and consistently demonstrating the Navy’s core

values of courage, comradeship, and commitment.”

OmT crabb said he joined the Navy to challenge himself with

something a little different.

“It’s amazing how much you change throughout the course.

everyone around you becomes more like a second family than

a bunch of people you met a few months ago,” he said.

It seems that salt runs in Aaron’s veins as both his uncle and

grandfather are past members of the RNZN.

OmT crabb is now continuing his training to be a fully

qualified marine Technician.

Above: OMT Aaron Crabb receiving the Spencer Tewsley Cup from vADM Sir Somerford Teagle.

Top: Rifles demonstration.

Above centre: Skills display under way.

Above: BCT graduates on the run.

oMt aaron crabb tHe top trainee of bct 15/02

21BCT 15/02 GraDuaTion

Top: The mighty Navy Haka.

Above: Imagine the skill and teamwork needed to do this!

Another of the high performers among BcT 15/02 is 23-year-old OmT Yyan mar mayorga, from christchurch. He received the Stoker First class

William dale cup for the most Improved Trainee.

cPOmTO Grant Gaffaney of the Recruit Training Squadron said: “The Stoker First class William dale cup is an important award as it shows a trainee’s ability to extend beyond their previous best and raise their own bar.”

OmT mayorga says he has always wanted to be part of the military and is looking forward to completing his basic branch training so he can help countries that have been damaged by natural disasters.

“I would like to be deployed to countries that have sustained damage from natural disasters as I believe the Navy has a key role to play in helping rebuild affected communities. Since I joined the Royal New Zealand Navy I have met new people and enjoyed the variety that my job offers. I learn so much every day,” he said.

OmT mayorga is now continuing his training to be a fully

qualified marine Technician.

Above: OMT Yyan Mar Mayorga doing the confidence course near the end of his BCT training.

oMt yyan Mar MayorGa takes tHe stoker first class WilliaM dale cup

22

otHer bct aWards and tropHies

Spencer Tewsley Cup and Award for the best all-round Basic Common Trainee

Awarded to OmT Aaron crabb from Palmerston North

Stoker First Class William Dale Cup for the most improved trainee

Awarded to OmT Yyan mar mayorga from christchurch

Chief Petty Officer Gunnery Instructor Jack Donnelly BEM Cup — Top Gun Trophy for the highest aggregate score during Weapons Qualifying

Awarded to OmT Joe mataele from Wellington

Captain Fleet Personnel and Training BCT Academic Prize for the highest academic marks during Basic Common Training

Awarded to OmT Tobias dalton from Auckland

Leading Physical Training Instructor Wayne (Buck) Shelford MBE Trophy for physical training excellence

Awarded to OmT Aaron crabb

Recruit Training Squadron Mariner Skills Excellence Award

Awarded to OmT Tobias dalton

Spedding Cup for the highest marks in parade training

Awarded to OmT Jackson ellis from Tauranga

OTHER BCT AWARDS AND TROPHIES

Hooke Cup for the division achieving the highest average score during Weapons Qualifying

Awarded to AcHILLeS division, accepted by OSA Wiripo manuera from Kaitaia

Trafalgar Cup contested by BCT divisions in sporting codes

Awarded to LeANdeR division, accepted by OmT Kristen Kotuhi from Kawerau

Hawera Cup for the division demonstrating the highest level of mariner skills

Awarded to LeANdeR division, accepted by OmT cole dain from Wairoa

The Duchess Cup for the trainee presenting the best uniform

Awarded to OcSS Nicole Bancroft from Whakatane

Gardiner Cup for the mess deck with the highest marks

Received on behalf of HINAU mess deck by OmA Brittany Sharpe from Whangamata

Efficiency Cup for the division demonstrating Core values and Teamwork

Received on behalf of AcHILLeS division by OmT Jackson ellis

The George Gair Cups for the best male and female cross-country runners

Awarded to OmT Bailey Neicho from Auckland and OmT Sara Kinghan from Auckland

Recruit Training Squadron Confidence Course Shield for the division completing the confidence course in the fastest time

Received on behalf of AcHILLeS division by OSA darnel eparaima from Rotorua

Fire-Ex Trophy for the division obtaining the lowest time in the Fire-Ex at Tamaki Leadership Centre

Received on behalf of AcHILLeS division by OSA Jamie cross from Auckland

General Drills Cup for the division with the lowest time for General Drills at Tamaki Leadership Centre

Received on behalf of AcHILLeS division by OmT Aaron crabb.

22 BCT 15/02 GraDuaTion

Top left: OCSS Sian Davis.

Top centre: OMT Cole Dain accepting the Hawera Cup on behalf of LEANDER Division.

Top right: OMT Joe Mataele receives his Top Gun Trophy.

Left: ROMT Tobias Dalton receives his Captain Fleet Personnel and Training BCT Academic Prize from vADM Sir Somerford Teagle.

Right: OMT Cole Dain shows his joy and pride at the end of the ceremony.

23nZDf safeTy awarDs

recoGnisinG tHe best in safety

By Kayt Robinson, Directorate of Safety

The second annual NZdF Safety Awards were held at HQ

NZdF in late October, celebrating individuals who show

innovation and an ongoing commitment to safety in their

workplaces. The awards acknowledge the contribution people

make to ensure our defence Force puts the safety of its people

first.

“This is in no way a foreign concept for the NZdF,” chief of

defence Force, LTGeN Tim Keating told those in attendance. Our

very will to fight—to knowingly venture into harm’s way—is based

on a reassurance and understanding that we train to survive and

that we manage risks in whatever activity we do.”

The Navy was well represented at the awards ceremony with a

finalist is each of the categories—Shaun dickey, Trade Training

School, for Safety Person of the Year; the Royal New Zealand

Navy (RNZN) for Best Significant Safety Initiative; and maritime

management Limited for Best Initiative by a contractor. F/S Aaron

Jeffries, 6SQN, was also a finalist for Best Initiative to Address a

Safety Hazard for work he did on preventing injury while working

at height on the SH-2G Seasprite while operating ashore and in the

embarked environment.

The Trade Training School is an inherently hazardous

environment delivering practical training to RNZN and

NZ Army personnel on heavy machinery including lathes,

drill presses, combustible engines, gas turbines and welding

equipment. Head of the school, mr dickey consistently leads

his team to promote a positive safety culture throughout the

workshops, including safety inductions, contributing to RNZN

safety investigations, implementing safety measures on the

discovery of hazards, and upholding and demonstrating a high

level of cleanliness.

The Trade Training School has an impeccable history in workplace

safety, having to only raise a few RNZN 1 forms, which can

be attributed to mr dickey’s leadership and example as an

outstanding safety practitioner requiring high, consistent and

sustainable health and safety standards.

In recognition of his performance, mr dickey was commended in

the external Safety management Review report 2014 and awarded

the Navy Safety Award on 9 July 2015.

during his time posted

to 6SQN, F/S Jeffries

focused on finding a way

to prevent injury if someone was

to fall while working at height on

the SH-2G Seasprite. After trialling

various controls, he determined

that, due to the shape and maintenance characteristics of the

aircraft, helmets would be the best control option.

F/S Jeffries then researched available helmets, taking

into account compatibility with other personal protective

equipment including hearing protection. during trials to gain

feedback, personnel unanimously preferred a helmet that did

not meet the requirements for hearing protection. F/S Jeffries

didn’t let this deter him, working with the helmet supplier to

find a way of integrating effective hearing protection.

While more expensive than other options, F/S Jeffries was

able to show that the helmet was the best option available,

and funding for the helmet was approved. He then organised

purchase and delivery, and carried out training to ensure

personnel used their helmets correctly.

Security and knowing the location of our people are an

undeniably important part of safety, especially when

the number of uniformed personnel is reduced to a bare

minimum, such as what occurred on HmNZS Te mANA, during its

mid-life upgrade.

marine management Ltd (mmL) were sub-contracted by Babcock

NZ Ltd to provide care and custody support under a ‘commercial

management of Ships in maintenance’ package during the

installation phase of the Platform System Upgrade.

mmL resourced and managed a small, dedicated team to provide

safety, security and technical management functions to ensure

all work could be effectively conducted. An aim of cmSm is to

reduce the burden on the limited uniformed personnel so they can

concentrate on the maintenance effort. Solutions to reduce the

ship’s company input and oversight were put in place, including

utilising swipe card access and a dedicated ccTV system rather

than having a manned brow.

To significantly reduce a breach of safety, an electronic tagout

log was implemented and a full lockout system was instigated to

ensure the safety of electrical and mechanical systems.

F/S Jefferies with the helmet.

HMNZS TE MANA coming out of dry dock.

trade traininG scHool

te Mana upGrade

seasprite safety

24 woMen in DefenCe experienCe

By SGT Suzanne Landers, Recruiting NCO, Hamilton

Over the past two years, the defence Recruiting Organisation has hosted many school students as part of a week-long defence career experiences, to experience

first hand what the defence Force is all about. This is a chance of a lifetime, and for most, is the decider as to whether they choose the defence Force as a career once they leave school.

Term three school holidays were slightly different, with 120 schoolgirls flooding the Navy’s Tamaki Leadership centre over six days, (two courses of three days each) to participate in a Women in defence experience (Wde). An area that defence Recruiting has focused on recently is to maximise our talent pool and increase capability, with one area being NZdF’s commitment to more women within our ranks, allowing a more flexible workforce in its output and operational duties.

This opportunity to attend the Wde was very sought after, with over 600 applications. The selection process from schools around the Waikato, Bay of Plenty, Auckland and Northland regions was very competitive. Although we couldn’t take everyone, it was positive to see the amount of interest received.

It was our job to provide an experience that set realistic expectations of what the three services are about, as well as how the defence Force comes together as one. Throughout the week, it became evident that these girls had many different opinions, perceptions, myths and understandings of what we as a defence Force were about. Some of these perceptions could potentially stop candidates, especially females, from wanting to join.

The Wde gave those selected the opportunity to engage with each of the three services, their personnel, platforms and equipment; and participate in activities to experience what life is like on base and ask to ask those difficult questions.

The Tamaki Leadership centre is a great facility, and enables us to provide the feeling of isolation and discipline that would be required on basic training. The girls were given uniforms, expected to keep their kit and living area in a respectable order, ate their meals in the mess environment, learnt basic drill, and participated in leadership and team work activities.

each day the students visited a separate service and learnt about the different trades available to them. What enhanced this experience was the support each service gave to showcase their different trades and opportunities. The service personnel who assisted were all very engaging with the students to make their experience more enjoyable. We understand this took time away from their core business but the time was extremely valuable for the girls, and that contribution will have a direct effect on the decisions they make. If we attract and recruit the right people, it benefits everyone.

The first day saw the girls experience their first Physical Training session on the confidence course. This appeared very daunting for some and many were pushed out of their comfort zone, they were given the opportunity to practice each obstacle slowly under a Physical Training Instructor’s supervision, before it was time to compete, in teams, against each other. Their can not’s turned into can do’s, and through supporting each other, everyone successfully

tHrillinG Holiday Week for 120 scHoolGirls WitH tHe nzdf

Above: Battling the Confidence Course.

“The Women in defence course was an amazing experience. The application to apply for the course was sent to me by my careers advisor. I knew it was a once in a lifetime opportunity and had to take it. The course gives you the full defence experience—early mornings, three-minute showers, visiting the bases, team bonding and pushing yourself to your limits. my favourite part of the three days was bonding with my syndicate members. In a short amount of time, everyone became very close as every activity depended on all nine members of the team. Overall I would advise all female students to take the opportunity. It is the only was to figure out if the Forces are really for you.”

tia rickards —year 13 te kuiti HiGH scHool:

25won reporT

WARRANT OFFICER OF THE NAVY Steve Bourke w

ar

ra

nt

officer of the

na

vyWon report

As 2015 draws to a close we reflect once again on what we have achieved both personally and as an organisation. We all continue to give, with many giving more than what

may have been required.

When you do look back so much has happened, changed and occurred throughout the year.

Just one of those changes to our organisation has been the handing over of command from Rear Admiral Jack Steer, ONZM to Rear Admiral John Martin, MNZM as our new Chief of Navy. RADM Steer we are all grateful for your Leadership, Courage, Commitment and Comradeship, you are the people’s Admiral, thank you for being you.

As we welcome the arrival of RADM John Martin as our Chief of Navy it seems that not that long ago, for me anyway, that some 36 years and 10 months ago that we both walked through the gates of HMNZS TAMAKI to start on our journey as sailors in the Royal New Zealand Navy.

Being the remaining serving members of BCT intake 1/79 and having taken separate pathways we now both reside at the top of the Navy; obviously one slightly higher in rank than the other. To be here together leading the Navy is a privilege and an honour.

We have seen our Navy welcome many a new recruit throughout the year not just officers and ratings but also civilians, lateral recruits and their families. To you all welcome aboard.

As a small snapshot we have seen the majority of our fleet involved in numerous operational and support outputs throughout the year; whether this was assisting with Cyclone Pam, Southern Katipo 15, Talisman Sabre, the success of diplomacy and the seizing of drugs in the Indian Ocean, to the Southern Ocean and Pacific Island patrols, the recovery of the crew from the FV Jubilee and to those that patrol our

coastal waters protecting our resources with other government agencies.

Not to take away any of achievements of the fleet there are also all those personnel on shore establishments whether located in Auckland or Wellington and those lodged in other camps and bases here and offshore who need to be recognised for their achievements and outputs,

Whether commanding functional areas, under training, instructing at the Youth Development Units, working in the Defence Headquarters, looking after our taonga, managing our administration, attending the numerous ceremonial commitments, working in the Maritime Engineering Support Team or undertaking community activities; for without a collective and inclusive workforce we cannot achieve what we need to achieve as a Navy for the greater good of our country.

On a daily basis I receive a number of accolades for our Navy personnel on their appearance, behaviour and execution of their duties. I am proud of our Navy and each and every one of you for your achievements and contributions.

Always take time to share with others what we have as a Navy and be proud to share your views and stories about our Navy to those that you meet whoever they are and wherever that may be.

The year is not over for many of our shipmates as they are carrying on with their duties over the Christmas period. For wherever that they may be; riding the waves of the Southern Ocean, overseas on an operational tasking and even duty during the Reduced Services Period, I thank you for what you are doing.

To our wider Navy family, I wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Take time to reflect, enjoy the time with your families over the holiday period, you all deserve the break.

Look after yourselves.

He Heramana ahau – I am a sailor

complete this challenging course. It also became one of the highlights of their experience.

In the afternoon at RNZAF Auckland (Whenuapai Air Force Base), the students visited and interacted with the Parachute Training Support Unit, Ground Support equipment maintenance Flight, Safety and Surface Flight, Aeronautical engineering Support Flight and communication Information Systems.

The second day saw an early start to miss the traffic over to devonport Naval Base. There students boarded HmNZS OTAGO; experienced the Seamanship Training Facility; had a memorable experience at the damage control School, which simulated the flooding of a ship; and learnt about the different trades available at Trade Training School.

At night the girls also had the privilege to meet a panel of our service women who spoke about their own stories and experiences within the defence Force that ranged from two to 30 years in the NZdF. This experience was invaluable, as each woman had their own personal story that the students seemed to relate to differently. The stories were completely genuine, and as a fellow service woman, it was humbling to sit and listen to what each woman had achieved and continues to achieve in an organisation that we all belong to.

The last service to experience was the Army which used the training area around the Tamaki Leadership centre, in Army Bay to showcase a variety of trades within logistics, combat and other technical trades such as maintenance Fitter, Steward, driver, engineers, Armoured combat Specialists and Vehicle mechanics, as well as the opportunity to use the mobile weapons training system, up from Waiouru, which they thoroughly enjoyed.

The Women in defence experience was a long but rewarding experience for everyone involved. All of the students walked away more knowledgeable about the defence Force and trades that we offer. It is pleasing to see many of the students now working through the recruitment process, hopefully to be selected for the defence Force.

Our organisation won’t suit everyone, but if we can provide as much information and set realistic expectations to prepare people for what to expect, then it will benefit both the candidate and our organisation. Just remember everyone in the defence Force is a recruiter. don’t be afraid to tell your friends your own personal stories and what the defence Force has to offer. You never know, you may just influence the next chief of defence Force to join. The more like minded people we recruit into our organisation, the more effective we will be.

26 fLeeT proGress

FLEET PROgRESS

By WOMT(P) Danny Paton

While on the way back from our deployment to Australia, HmNZS eNdeAVOUR was fortunate enough to conduct a home port visit to New

Plymouth from 6 to 10 November. The weekend allowed a great opportunity for Ship’s company to strengthen their relationship with eNdeAVOUR’s sponsor city.

While the ship’s aims were to visit our sponsored school and charity, (moturoa Primary School and the kids at IHc IdeA Services) the visit coincided with another major event for the city, a Royal visit and garden party with the Prince of Wales and the duchess of cornwall.

due to the great relationship between New Plymouth and eNdeAVOUR, our commanding Officer, cdR martin doolan, RNZN was invited along with three members of Ship’s company—our XO, LT cdR Bronwyn Heslop, our president of the Junior Ratings mess, LmT(L) Gavin Neuenschwander and me, WOmT(P) danny Paton.

As expected, we all turned out in ship-shape fashion, only to find that the Royal aircraft had been delayed due to fog at New Plymouth Airport. There was never a chance for boredom as everyone was interested in who we were and where we came from. Luckily the sun broke through the fog and the Royal guests managed to land and make their way to the garden party, albeit two hours behind schedule.

Once the garden party began, the Royal couple were swamped by the large group attending. The eNdeAVOUR contingent, being shy retiring types, held back and watched the proceedings. We were then approached by the organisers to become “a wall of white” to allow the duchess to move between areas of interest. Her Royal Highness stopped and thanked us individually, while graciously apologising for being delayed.

Before we could congratulate ourselves on a job well done, the organisers asked if we could conduct the same role for the Prince of Wales. He stopped and chatted to everyone in the group, displaying a great interest in the RNZN, and getting an update on fleet size. We were all proud to have attended and were amazed by how many social events they fitted into their whirlwind tour of New Zealand.

The remainder of Ship’s company were kept on their toes working alongside moturoa Primary School and at IHc IdeA Services. Whether it was tearing down old fences, erecting blackboards or just getting owned by six year olds on the basketball courts, everyone enjoyed themselves. It was a major achievement for the ship in fostering our home port ties. The children, staff and parents from moturoa Primary School performed their haka while standing on the beach as the ship sailed on Tuesday morning; we replied by sounding the ship’s siren to let them know we appreciate them, and that we can’t wait to come back.

new plymouth home port visit

Top: The Duchess of Cornwall meets ENDEAvOUR crew members.

Above: Helping out at school.

HMnzs endeavourENDEAVOUR

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FLEET PROgRESS

HMnzs otaGoin Work up

By MID Michaela Curtis RNZN

monday 12 of October started like any other day, with the crew of OTAGO conducting securing for sea and pre-sailing checks prior to what was only the beginning

of an exhausting month ahead. The smiles quickly disappeared as everyone’s favourite team in green, the maritime Operation evaluation Team, walked across the brow and made themselves at home. And so began the first week of a month-long Work Up, probably the hardest month the ship has faced this year.

With just over a month to prepare for the Southern Ocean deployment, and a majority of Ship’s company being newly posted to OTAGO, there was a lot of work and learning to be done. The added pressure of mOeT watching every move didn’t worry the crew, as everyone got stuck in. Whether it was a small fire for Standing Sea emergency Party to deal with, or a ship-

wide evolution such as an abandon ship drill, Ship’s company showed enthusiasm in every aspect and worked hard as a team to impress and treat the scenario as if it were really happening.

Week one consisted of what could only be defined as the basics, with countless man Overboards, damage control exercises and Boarding Team practices followed by a weekend alongside in Tauranga conducting force protection exercises for the duty Watch. After what was a long tiring first week, we were in for a surprise as the pace picked up considerably.

during the second week, the evolutions were much more complicated, with the addition of extras such as Aviation, Officer of the Watch manoeuvres in company with HmNZS WeLLINGTON, Gunnery drills and a short trip back on land for Humanitarian Aid and disaster Relief. The evolutions began to test more than just our reactions to incidents on board—more advanced serials were introduced which required more experience or planning from the crew in order to be executed.

After a short break and a well deserved long weekend off, OTAGO once again welcomed mOeT back on board for week three. Although only a four-day week consisting of two trips back to devonport Naval Base due to safeguard problems, and a night spent alongside while pretending to still be ‘at sea’, we didn’t get complacent and continued to work to the best of our ability to ‘fight what we see’. The effort, enthusiasm and teamwork from the crew

paid off and we received a big thumbs up on Friday morning that all the work had paid off and we had passed all serials to the standard expected, with many departments going above and beyond what was asked of them.

A week off, spent conducting maintenance, pre-deployment preps and boarding team specialist training, was welcomed with open arms as a break from the glaring eyes of mOeT and a chance to unwind before the final week of Work Up. When monday rolled

Top: Work Up.

Below: The Commanding Officer waving goodbye to the CO of Wellington after OOWMANs.

OHSO Barry before being winched up during a flying serial.

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boardinG scHoolBy ASCS Alexander Croucher

during the first week of November, between weeks three and four of Work Up, HmNZS OTAGO’s Boarding Team spent the week at Tamaki Leadership centre training to

conduct Tier 2(non-compliant) boardings. We trained with rifles, shotguns and pistols, from the basic operation of the weapons to more advanced drills and scenarios.

Some members of the team faced a larger learning curve than others, Operating shotguns and pistols was a completely new experience for almost half the team, but they got the hang of it in no time, with a little guidance from the Seamanship combat Specialist ratings.

We learned many new drills, from operating in a small space and under pressure, to moving, reacting, cover shooting and operating our weapons in more than uncomfortable positions. We learned when you should reload or go straight to your secondary weapon (pistol), and many more useful skills.

A boarding can be unpredictable, a disgruntled or even friendly and compliant crew could become aggressive at any moment and we need to be ready for this. After our training in Work Up, previous courses and this week at the range, our Boarding Team is fully capable and confident for whatever the Southern Ocean has in store.

Top left: Standing Sea Emergency party dealing with a damage control incident.

Below: Relocating “injured civilians” back to the ship during a Disaster Relief exercise.

Above: The boarding team gets a debrief from MOET.

around, the crew put their game faces back on and watched with smiles as mOeT walked through the ship, no longer intimidated, and fully confident that they were completely capable of improving on their past performances.

The final week focused solely on the upcoming Southern Ocean trip and the most likely scenarios OTAGO will face while down there where the environmental conditions make everything harder. But it wasn’t the stress of everything happening on board that the crew found difficult; it was getting used to wearing beanies, gloves and thick jackets on the upper decks while the sun was blazing and the heat was reaching temperatures of well over 20 degrees. It’s unsurprisingly hard to simulate abandoning ship in sub zero temperatures in the Southern Ocean, while in the middle of the Hauraki Gulf on the warmest day of November.

As the long and too warm for comfort week drew to a close, the commanding Officer was told that the scenario had come to an end, it was no longer minus seven degrees outside and so the ship made a 180 degree turn and steamed towards Auckland harbour.

everyone was eager to get home and wave goodbye to mOeT for the final time, morale was high and a surprise promotion was conducted for AcWS Thomas Wotton on the bridge during the entering harbour brief. Once alongside, Ship’s company formed up on the flight deck waiting to hear the feedback from all their efforts, and were given the final big thumbs up that the week had been successful and so ended a long month of Work Up. With only one week left before leaving Auckland, Ship’s company were grateful to spend some time with their families and friends before waving goodbye to the warm weather and getting ready to put their gloves and beanies on again, this time for real.

FLEET PROgRESS

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From SLT Stephen Knowles

HmNZS Te KAHA has arrived back in devonport Naval Base in mid-November after what was an eventful year and a busy last week at sea. Te KAHA conducted exercise

Southern Katipo 15 alongside HmNZS cANTeRBURY and FNS PRAIRIAL off the Taranaki Bight, before heading for home with a detour into Wellington Harbour to uplift 20 lucky Ship’s company family members for the trip up the east coast of the North Island. While the family members were embarked they were shown some aspects of what life on a ship is like day to day. The family members were thrown into a damage control exercise fighting a fire in the gym. There was also a manoeuvring display conducting high speed turns in front of White Island. Formal rounds and a quiz night topped off the two days for the family members.

family members’ passageHMnzs te kaHa

Top: TEK CO, CDR Simon Griffiths, welcoming the family members on board.

Bottom left: Heavy manoeuvring roll to starboard.

Bottom right: One of the younger family members piping the carry on after formal rounds with older brother SLT Brock West coaching.

Middle right: LET Hayes checking off the family members’ breathing apparatus during a fire exercise.

Top right: Family members and Ship’s Company observing White Island as TEK does a lap around.

FLEET PROgRESS

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Above: POCH Tina Scadden in Honiara.

Below: Members of Ship’s Company at a PNG school.

By POCH Tina Scadden

In the eight months that I have so far worked onboard HmNZS

WeLINGTON, I have come to appreciate the work these patrol

vessels can accomplish as well as the challenges they can offer.

Being involved in operations for support, training and diplomacy

working with outside agencies to remote locations such as Raoul

Island, Auckland Island, Honiara and Papua New Guinea are only a

few of the taskings that showcase the Protector Fleet’s versatility.

WeLLINGTON’s most recent deployment to the South Pacific held

some particularly interesting events and challenges. Although

much focus was on diplomacy, there was significant support to our

regional partners, who employed the full range of Offshore Patrol

Vehicle.

Flying serials were conducted with the French forces based in New

caledonia which helped us to conduct valuable training and expand

our interoperability.

Training with the Royal Solomon Island Police (maritime) helped

us to provide a maritime presence in the region as well as shared

experiences for WeLLINGTON’s team.

Whilst in Honiara, Solomon Islands, the ship and her crew supported

the local New Zealand High commission by hosting an Official

Reception, an Open day, and visits to several schools and charities

to conduct charity work. The Leading medic also helped to teach

basic first aid to local council workers. This made the port visit to

Honiara hectic but very rewarding!

On sailing from Honiara, three days were spent acknowledging

our Navy’s history with the RNZN Kaumatua and Kuia, and local

and international guests. Three ceremonies were conducted

commemorating HmNZS mOA, AcHILLIeS and KIWI, and their

sacrifices and efforts during WWII.

Similar civic activities were conducted throughout our visits to Lae

and Port moresby in Papua New Guinea, where we were graciously

hosted by local military bases. We were also involved in several

sports days, where the climate definitely made itself known!

WeLLINGTON provided support to the chief of Navy hosting an

Official Reception and cN’s Luncheon onboard, and various other

activities which allowed the Support team onboard to offer a world

class service in a challenging environment.

down time for Ship’s company through this deployment was

another factor to manage throughout. The ‘Hunger Games’ involved

all those onboard including two PNG personnel transiting home

with us and an NZdF photographer; cO for the day saw the cO

assisting in the galley with one of the chefs making the decisions for

the day, BBQs and sporties were also well timed through this trip, to

help keep morale high.

An ever-present churn of personnel, through On the Job Training

and Augmentee positions, also allows a ship like WeLLINGTON to

give great training opportunities for those joining us, as well as a

challenge to our crew in supporting those training needs.

This is especially important through a task-loaded period of

maintenance, to enable the entire Ship’s company to be ready for

the demands of sea.

Working for the first time as a Branch coordinator has given me the

opportunity to see the challenges offered to all branches on ship,

especially during maintenance and preparations towards returning

back to the sea lanes.

A planned two week maintenance period was as busy as always for

everyone onboard, the usual planned engineering maintenance on

top of the routine items, opportunities to clear leave for those who

get to enjoy time at sea more than others, external training to keep

the crew in date, the usual upkeep and preparations that keep the

ship ticking over and up to scratch, loading of equipment and stores

required for the upcoming stint at sea, and also internal training in

several areas including OOd endorsement, flight-deck party and

boarding party.

FLEET PROgRESS

HMnzs WellinGton eight months on a busy ship

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FLEET PROgRESS

bz: The flag signal Bravo Zulu, meaning “well done.”

brow: Gangway between ship and wharf.

clear lower deck: All work ceases and personnel muster for a specific purpose, such as a promotions or awards ceremony.

dit: A Navy yarn.

eMas: early morning Activities—running, swimming etc for new recruits.

exped: An expedition to some distant place, often for sport or recreation.

Gash: Rubbish

Goffas: Non-alcoholic drink

Heads: Toilets. In sail days they were under the figurehead.

Helo: Helicopter, in our case our Seasprites.

Moet: maritime Operational evaluation Team

oppos: Shipmates

oscar: The flag signal for “man overboard.” The name of the man-overboard dummy used for drills.

rHib: Rigid hull inflatable boat, jetboat carried on our ships

rig: Uniform

scran: Food

Work-up: Intense exercises working a ship up to its full operational capabilities, conducted by mOeT.

Jackspeak—navy slanG

radM: Rear Admiral

cdre: Commodore

capt: Captain

cdr: Commander

lt cdr: Lieutenant Commander

lt: Lieutenant

slt: Sub Lieutenant

ens: Ensign

Mid: Midshipman

WocH: Warrant Officer Chef

WoMed: Warrant Officer Medic

cpoWtr: Chief Petty Officer Writer

cpoeWs: Chief Petty Officer Electronic Warfare Specialist

popti: Petty Officer Physical Training Instructor

pocss: Petty Officer Combat System Specialist

lscs: Leading Seamanship Combat Specialist

lsa: Leading Stores Accountant

lMt (p): Leading Marine Technician (Propulsion)

aMus: Able Musician

adr: Able Diver

aHcM: Able Helicopter Crewperson

ostd: Ordinary Steward

oMt (l): Ordinary Marine Technician (Electrical)

ocWs: Ordinary Communications Warfare Specialist

selected rnzn rank abbreviationsWith the various Navy trades, the trade has the same title across all relevant ranks, so, for example, a LSCS (Leading Seamanship Combat Specialist) is the same trade as a CPOSCS (Chief Petty Officer Seamanship Combat Specialist), and so on. Men and women have the same rank titles—a Midshipman or Leading Seamanship Combat Specialist can be (and are) men and women. Almost a quarter of Navy personnel now are women, up to the rank of Captain.

Neptune Memorial Service & EX & CURRENT RNZN/RNZNvR Get TogetherThis years Neptune memorial Service for canterbury will be held on Saturday19 december at 1100 at HmNZS PeGASUS, christchurch. The guest speaker will be LT cdR mark Hadlow, RNZNR. morning tea will be provided on completion of the service. Following this, the christmas ex & current RNZN/RNZNVR Get Together will be held at HmNZS PeGASUS, 1300-1700. cash Bar. Partners welcome. RSVP dianne.fowler@nzdf.mil.nz or Roger.sheehan@nzdf.mil.nz.

Navy Club Auckland Anzac Day trip to the Gold CoastThe Navy club, Auckland, invites you to join our trip to Australia for Anzac day 2016. enjoy a seven-day holiday on the Gold coast Queensland, Australia including Anzac day April 25 at currumbin RSL, coolangatta area and then Broadbeach, Surfers Paradise. An approximate budget for the seven nights, including air fares and accommodation is $2400.00 per person. Flights are available to coolangatta and Brisbane. Airline travel to be organised by the person travelling. Accommodation will be co-ordinated by The Navy club. expenses to be confirmed when we know many are interested.For further information, or to register an expression of interest, contact maurice mitchell email address: alarm1@xtra.co.nz or phone: 09-520 2506 or PO Box 9352 Newmarket 1149, Auckland, or Jill Thompson email address: jillt.nz49@gmail.com or phone: 09-836 5191

Wellington Returned and Services Association Needs YouThe WRSA was established 100 years ago. Since then it has served the Wellington regions returned and service people and their families. The WRSA is financially very stable and currently served by a lot of dedicated ex service and associated people. To ensure it continues to provide both social and other support to all service people and their families fresh blood is needed on their executive committee. If you are interested in continuing the traditions of the Services and RSAs, that is support to all service people and their families, why don’t you join? Please contact Ron Turner QSm JO, President WRSA by email at rjturner@clear.net.nz or by phone at 04 38511910 or 274 478138

Loch Class Reunion Plymouth, DevonThe Loch class Frigates Association UK invites Kiwi Loch class sailors to join us at ourr Annual Reunion 2016 in recognition of the 75th Anniversary of the Royal New Zealand Navy. The reunion will be held at the duke of cornwall Hotel, Plymouth, devon April 22 to 25 2016 encompassing Anzac day. For further details contact Andrew Nunn Hon Sec email: andrew.nunn@blueyonder.co.uk or New Zealand contact mick Richards email: awakinopoint@xtra.co.nz or phone (09) 09 439 7870

HMNZS WAIKATO 50th Reunion at Mount MaunganuiAll ex-crew members who served on the ‘mighty Y’ and their partners are invited to register their interest in attending this reunion to be held on Queen’s Birthday Weekend 2016. ex crew members are to do so using the registration form posted on the reunion website, www.hmnzswaikatoreunion.weebly.com, or the HmNZS WAIKATO Facebook page, or contact Kim and Leonie Hinaki at eeltrap@clear.net.nz or 021 020 61004.

All Ships Reunion celebrating HMNZS BLACKPOOL 50th Anniversary and HMNZS ROYALIST 60th AnniversaryThis will be held in New Plymouth on the weekend of Friday 15 to monday 18 July 2016. details still to be finalised but application forms can be applied for now. They will be sent when full programme is completed. contact Trevor Wylde, 146A Ngamotu Road, Spotswood, New Plymouth 4310. Phone/fax (06) 7515595, mobile 0274 844587, email trevor.cherryl@xtra.co.nz

MAY 1997 Intake 40 year ReunionAuckland May 26 to 28 2017, venue TBAAll BcTs, WRNZNs, instructors and divisional officers who enlisted in or were involved with this 1977 intake 40 years ago. Please contact either Norm Harding georgenormharding@gmail.com or John Leefe j_leefe@me.com

Royal Naval Engineers’ Benevolent Society 2018 celebration150th Anniversary of the Introduction of Artificers into the Royal Navy in 1868We are organising a UK event to celebrate the Introduction of Artificers into the Royal Navy in 1868. RNZN Artificers welcome. contact cliff Fiander, 33 Goldfinch Road, melksham, Wiltshire SN12 7FL UK, email cliff.fiander@mail.com

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WE DEFENDNEW ZEALAND’S INTERESTS AT SEA