Aotearoa sails into Auckland Harbour for the first time. Photo from NZDF Facebook page.

Aotearoa gets rousing welcome in Auckland

26/06/202019/08/2020 Posted by Brian Hartigan 2403 Views 0 Comments

The Royal New Zealand Navy’s new fleet tanker and replenishment ship Aotearoa sailed into Auckland Harbour today following her 15-day journey from Ulsan, South Korea.

CAPTION: Aotearoa sails into Auckland Harbour for the first time. Photo from NZDF Facebook page.

Aotearoa is a purpose-built and technologically enhanced asset that will add real value to New Zealand’s combat operations, humanitarian relief functions and operational and training support.

At the dock, Aotearoa was greeted by vips, guests, the Royal New Zealand Navy band – and, of course, a rousing Haka.

Auckland Harbour’s Pilot Pete had the rare honour to bring the Royal New Zealand Navy’s newest ship into the Waitematā, accompanied by a flotilla of yachts and other craft, plus a Royal New Zealand Air Force fly past.