17 March 2008
Forty-four New Zealand Defence Force personnel will depart for a four-month tour of duty in the Solomon Islands tomorrow, 18 March.
The NZDF personnel are the sixth rotation to serve in the Solomon Islands and are drawn mainly from the Territorial Force battalions of 3rd Auckland Northland and 6th Hauraki regiments. They will continue to support the Regional Assistance Mission to the Solomon Islands (RAMSI).
Regular tasks for the Kiwis include carrying out patrols, liaising with locals, providing assistance to police and help with external security at Rove Prison.
The platoon deploying on Tuesday will replace the fifth rotation of NZDF personnel who return to New Zealand on Easter Sunday. They will be farewelled by Commander 2nd Land Force Group Colonel Tim Keating, and family and friends.
The main body will depart from Whenuapai Air Force Base (Air Movements Terminal) on Tuesday 18 March.
Media are invited to attend.
When: 7.30am Tuesday 18 March 2008
Where: Whenuapai Air Force Base (Air Movements Terminal)
What: Departure of NZDF personnel for a four month deployment in the Solomon Islands.
Media wishing to attend the departure must register their interest with Nicole Munro-Johnson, (04) 529 6033 or 021 569 148, before 4pm on Monday 17 March to ensure access is available.
Photo identification will be required on the day.
ENDS
For further information please contact Nicole Munro-Johnson, Defence Public Relations, on (04) 529 6033 or 021 569 148.
Background - Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands:
RAMSI is a partnership between the government of the Solomon Islands and contributing Pacific nations, including New Zealand and Australia. It aims to ensure security and assists the Solomon Island’s people and government to develop the skills and institutions for successful self governance.
New Zealand has supported the RAMSI mission since July 2003 at the request of the Solomon Island’s government. The NZDF will maintain a continued presence in the Solomon Islands until a yet to be determined date.
The mission in the Solomon Islands requires strong infantry skills and an ability to get on well with the local people. The New Zealand Troops regularly liaise with locals, conduct patrols, provide assistance to police and help with external security at Rove Prison.