27 November 2008
It will be a happy contingent of 104 New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) personnel who return to New Zealand this Friday after a six month tour of duty in Timor-Leste, arriving home in time to spend Christmas with loved ones.
The Company, drawn mainly from 2/1RNZIR based in Burnham, are the fifth rotation to serve in Timor-Leste since troops were again committed in May 2006.
Upon arrival at Christchurch International Airport tomorrow they will be welcomed by Chief of Defence Force Lieutenant General Jerry Mateparae, and family and friends.
Media are invited to attend the arrival, and personnel will be available to speak to media.
When: 5pm, Friday 28 November 2008
Where: Christchurch International Airport
What: Return of NZDF personnel from a six month deployment in Timor-Leste.
Media wishing to attend the departure must register with Jane Mortlock, or 021 224 8658, before 11am on Friday 28 November 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
New Zealand Defence Force’s commitment to Timor-Leste at present also includes two Military Liaison Officers serving with the United Nations Integrated Mission in Timor-Leste (UNMIT) and five advisors to the Timor-Leste Defence Force (F-FDTL).New Zealand has contributed to stability and security efforts in Timor-Leste through various United Nations and peacekeeping missions since 1999. There are currently 644 New Zealand Defence Force personnel deployed on 16 operations, UN missions and defence exercises around the world.