Recreational diver chases Navy dream
06 September 2024
Latest
Stories
First female divers join the Royal New Zealand Navy Clearance Diving trade
02 September 2024
Media Release
104 year old navy veteran reflects on WWII
29 August 2024
Looking Back
New appointments for NZDF's senior leadership
28 August 2024
Organisation
Southland engineer takes command of frigate
27 August 2024
Media Release
New design for Navy officer’s sword
23 August 2024
Our Heritage
Tonga Language Week 2024
22 August 2024
People
Recruiting ambassador inspires next generation
19 August 2024
People
Defence Force recognises personnel in a wide range of roles
08 August 2024
Media Release
Home away from home for Ōpōtiki sailors aboard HMNZS Aotearoa
06 August 2024
Media Release
Royal New Zealand Navy ship conducts longest replenishment at sea
02 August 2024
Partnering
Navy medic’s decade-long journey to her dream job
02 August 2024
Media Release
Solomon Island deployment concludes
01 August 2024
Media Release
Jet skier eyes world title
31 July 2024
People
Young Auckland naval officer takes charge of HMNZS Taupo
23 July 2024
Media Release
Sailor's experience backs up psychology pathway
19 July 2024
People
Former Army gunner switches to Navy blues with warfare officer role
10 July 2024
Media Release
HMNZS Manawanui returns from South Pacific deployment
10 July 2024
Media Release
Kiribati Language Week 2024
08 July 2024
People
HMNZS Aotearoa arrives at RIMPAC 2024
02 July 2024
Media Release
Navy reservists help regenerate Irish patrol ship
27 June 2024
Partnering
Second World War-era bombs in Vanuatu made safe by Navy divers
26 June 2024
Media Release
Tech, science and weaponry on board Navy frigate
26 June 2024
People
Wellington man keeps RNZN frigate on course
25 June 2024
Media Release
Southland marine engineer hones skills in South Atlantic Ocean with the Royal Navy
19 June 2024
Media Release
Five-month deployment for Royal New Zealand Navy vessel includes military exercises, operations and engagements
19 June 2024
HMNZS Taupo supports MPI in South Island fishery compliance
18 June 2024
Media Release
Waiouru soldier is district’s top citizen
17 June 2024
In the community
Customs and Navy stop transnational cocaine smuggling attempt
11 June 2024
Media Release
Exercising with the Five Powers
07 June 2024
Ops & exercises
We are Te Taua Moana - Warriors of the Sea, professionally trained and committed to doing what is right for our country and for those who ask for our help.
As an island nation with no immediate neighbours, maritime security is vital for New Zealand. Around 90% of our imports and exports are transported by sea so ensuring our trade routes are secure is critical for our economy. Our Exclusive Economic Zone is one of the largest in the world, and at 30,000,000 square kilometres our search and rescue area of responsibility is 7% of the earth’s surface. We protect our own natural ocean resources along with those of our Pacific Island neighbours and play our part in maintaining and preserving order in our region. We are one of the first responders to natural disasters and crises, spearheading the humanitarian response by carrying people, equipment, supplies and expertise to where they are needed most.
Our maritime force is made up of highly trained professionals.
We come from all walks of life and share a strong sense of what it means to be Kiwi - our culture is based on our values Tū Kaha (courage), Tū Tika (commitment), Tū Tira (comradeship) and Tū Maia (integrity). Together, we are Force for New Zealand and are proud to serve Aotearoa and its diverse communities.
Our fleet comprises nine modern and versatile ships and over 2,500 uniformed personnel who undertake a full range of maritime tasks from a combat capability to conducting humanitarian aid and disaster relief missions, fishery and border patrols through to support for government agencies.
Meet our leaders
Considering a career in the navy?
A career in the Defence Force is unlike anything out there. You'll be working as part of a tight-knit team, protecting your family, friends, the environment and your country from harm and representing the New Zealand way of life where you go. It's an incredibly rewarding job that gives you a real sense of purpose.
Find out moreThrough their eyes
Hawke’s Bay Navy hydrographer dives into new Navy boarding team role
15 May 2024
Media Release
Navy Bandsman explores Gallipoli history through musical predecessor
23 April 2024
Media Release
Learning the weapons trade
15 April 2024
People
Top skills brought back to Navy
03 April 2024
People
The Antarctic experience
26 March 2024
People
Anchored in strength
08 March 2024
People
Navy sailor finds her problem-solving niche with NZ Navy
08 March 2024