Official release of all NZDF personnel from MIQ duties

The ceremony held at Devonport Naval Base officially concluded our service on Operation Protect and recognised the significant contribution our people made to keep New Zealanders safe during the pandemic.

Operation Protect has been one of the single largest commitments of personnel made to a response in more than 50 years, with over 6,200 involved. It is important to reflect on the enormous efforts of our people.

Chief Petty Officer Gregory Bishell was awarded a New Zealand Defence Force commendation by Warrant Officer Class 1 Darrin Waitere for his work on Operation Protect as one of the first NZDF personnel deployed to a Managed Isolation Facility.

CPO Bishell worked in multiple facilities across the network in Auckland including the Rydges, Holiday Inn, SO, Grand Millennium, and former MIF Haka Hotel. CPO Bishell became a subject matter expert in running MIFs.

As our personnel return to their camps and bases, we look forward to regrouping, refreshing our training, and regenerating those capabilities that have been impacted by this enormous commitment.