23 July 2007
On Wednesday 25 July two contingents of New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) personnel will return from tours of duty in the Solomon Islands and Timor-Leste.
The returning personnel include 44 soldiers drawn mainly from the Territorial Force who have served in the Solomon Islands for the past four months, and 33 air crew and support staff who have operated the Defence helicopters deployed to Timor-Leste during the past six months.
The returning personnel were relieved on 22 July by a contingent of 44 personnel deployed to the Solomon Islands and 32 air crew and support staff deployed to operate the Defence Helicopters in Timor-Leste.
When: 25 July 2007, 9.05pm flight arrival
Where: Whenuapai Air Force Base
What: Arrival of 77 NZDF personnel from operations in the Solomon Islands and Timor-Leste.
Media wishing to attend the arrival are asked to register their interest with Nicole Munro-Johnson, 021 569 148, before 4pm on Tuesday 24 July to ensure access is available. Photo identification will be required on the day.
ENDS
Currently 675 New Zealand Defence Force personnel are deployed on 19 operations, UN missions and defence exercises around the world.
For further information please contact Nicole Munro-Johnson, Defence Public Relations, on (04) 529 6033 or 021 569 148.