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Commodore Garin Golding

Commodore Garin Golding

Maritime Component Commander

The Maritime Component Commander (MCC) commands our fleet of ships that regularly deploy overseas and around New Zealand to protect and support New Zealand’s interests. MCC is responsible to the Chief of Navy for the readiness of the Fleet and specialist teams to deliver our mission, outputs and outcomes.

At home at sea

Commodore Golding began his Navy career as a Seaman Officer in January 1988. He spent most of his early years at sea and specialized in Mine Warfare and Clearance Diving. He held different roles such as Staff Officer Diving and Commanding Officer of HMNZS Manawanui.

In 2003, Golding was assigned to Wellington and completed several roles including:

  • Maritime Planner
  • Joint Training Branch Head
  • Inspector General of the Navy
  • Project Manager for the Littoral Operations Support Capability project.

After that, he was appointed as the Commander of the Deployable Joint Inter-Agency Task Force, Assistant Chief of Navy (Strategy and Engagement), and Director of Maritime Domain in Capability Branch.

A varied education

Golding completed several courses and received many awards during his service. He finished the Commander Joint Task Force course in Australia, the NZDF Advanced Command and Staff Course, and a year of higher learning at the Royal College of Defence Studies in London. He also has a Master of Arts in International Security and Strategy, a Master of Strategic Studies, and a Diploma in Applied Business.

Golding completed two operational tours in Bougainville and East Timor and received two Chief of Navy commendations and the United States Navy and Marine Corps commendation for his service.