View source for Royal New Zealand Navy

{{short description|Maritime arm of the New Zealand Defence Force}}
{{Use New Zealand English|date=August 2024}}
{{more footnotes needed|date=March 2012}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=September 2018}}

{{Infobox military unit
| unit_name = Royal New Zealand Navy
| native_name = {{nativename|mi|Te Taua Moana o Aotearoa}}
| website = https://www.nzdf.mil.nz/navy/
| image = RNZN Crest.jpg
| image_size = 150px
| caption = Badge of the Royal New Zealand Navy
| start_date = {{start date and age|df=yes|1941|10|01}}
| dates = 
| country = {{unbulletedlist|{{flagicon|New Zealand}} [[Dominion of New Zealand]] (1941–1947)| {{flagicon|New Zealand}} [[New Zealand]] (1947–present)}}
| type = [[Navy]]
| role = [[Naval warfare]]
| size = * 2,107 active personnel
* 766 [[Royal New Zealand Naval Volunteer Reserve|reserves]]
6 commissioned ships
| command_structure = [[New Zealand Defence Force]]
| garrison = [[Devonport Naval Base]]
| garrison_label = 
| nickname = 
| patron = 
| motto = 
| colors = {{color box|#df173b}} Red<br>{{color box|#255255255}} White <!-- Red is from the logo-->
| colors_label = Colours
| march = Quick – "[[Heart of Oak]]" {{audio|Heart of Oak.ogg|Play}}<br/>Slow – "E Pari Ra"
| mascot = Anchor
| equipment = {{plainlist|
*2 [[frigates]]
*2 [[Patrol vessel|offshore patrol vessels]]
*2 [[Patrol vessel|inshore patrol vessels]]
*1 [[landing ship logistics]]
*1 [[replenishment oiler]]}}
| equipment_label = [[List of active Royal New Zealand Navy ships|Fleet]]
| battles = {{ubl|[[World War II]]<br>[[Korean War]]|[[Malayan Emergency]]|[[Cross border attacks in Sabah]]|[[Indonesia–Malaysia confrontation]]|[[Iran–Iraq War]]|[[Gulf War]]|[[Solomon Islands]]|[[East Timor]]|[[Operation Enduring Freedom]]|[[Operation Prosperity Guardian]]}}
| anniversaries = 1 October 1941 (founded)
| decorations = 
| battle_honours = <!-- Commanders -->
| commander1 = [[Cindy Kiro|Dame Alcyion Cynthia Kiro]]
| commander1_label = [[Governor-General of New Zealand|Governor-General and Commander-in-Chief]]
| commander2 = Air Marshal   Tony Davies
| commander2_label = {{nowrap|[[Chief of Defence Force (New Zealand)|Chief of Defence Force]]}}
| commander3 = Rear Admiral [[Garin Golding]]
| commander3_label = [[Chief of Navy (New Zealand)|Chief of Navy]]
| commander4 = Commodore Karl Woodhead
| commander4_label = [[Deputy Chief of Navy (New Zealand)|Deputy Chief of Navy]]
| notable_commanders = <!-- Insignia -->
| identification_symbol = [[File:New Zealand Navy logo.svg|200px]]
| identification_symbol_label = Logo
| identification_symbol_2 = [[File:Naval Ensign of New Zealand.svg|border|200px]]
| identification_symbol_2_label = [[New Zealand White Ensign|Naval ensign]]
| identification_symbol_3 = [[File:Flag of New Zealand.svg|border|200px]]
| identification_symbol_3_label = Naval jack
| identification_symbol_4 = 
| identification_symbol_4_label = 
| identification_symbol_5 = 
| identification_symbol_5_label = <!-- Aircraft -->
| aircraft_helicopter = 
}}

The '''Royal New Zealand Navy''' ('''RNZN'''; {{langx|mi|Te Taua Moana o Aotearoa||Sea Warriors of New Zealand}}) is the maritime arm of the [[New Zealand Defence Force]]. The fleet currently consists of eight ships. The Navy had its origins in the [[Naval Defence Act 1913]], and the subsequent acquisition of the cruiser {{HMS|Philomel|1890|6}}, which by 1921 had been moored in Auckland as a training ship. A slow buildup occurred during the [[interwar period]], and then in December 1939 {{HMS|Achilles|70|6}} fought alongside two other Royal Navy cruisers at the [[Battle of the River Plate]] against the German ship, ''[[German cruiser Admiral Graf Spee|Graf Spee]]''.

==History==
{{main|History of the Royal New Zealand Navy|New Zealand Division of the Royal Navy}}

===Pre–World War I===
{{Main|Early naval vessels of New Zealand}}

The first recorded maritime combat activity in New Zealand occurred off the northern tip of the [[South Island]] in December 1642. [[Māori people|Māori]] in [[Waka (canoe)|war canoes]] attacked and killed four seamen from [[Abel Tasman]]'s party, who were at the time in low boats between the main ships.

The New Zealand Navy did not exist as a separate military force until 1941.<ref>Much of this discussion is taken from [http://www.navy.mil.nz/know-your-navy/history/default.htm "RNZN History"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130502055354/http://www.navy.mil.nz/know-your-navy/history/default.htm |date=2 May 2013 }}. RNZN Official Website. Accessed 15 April 2006.</ref> The association of the [[Royal Navy]] with New Zealand began with the arrival of [[James Cook]] in 1769, who completed two subsequent journeys to New Zealand in 1773 and 1777. Occasional visits by Royal Navy ships were made from the late 18th century. The Royal Navy played a part in the [[New Zealand Wars]]: for example, a gunboat shelled fortified Māori [[Pa (Māori)|pā]] from the Waikato River in order to defeat the [[Māori King Movement]].

===World War I and the inter-war period===
In 1909 the New Zealand government decided to fund the purchase of the [[battlecruiser]] {{HMS|New Zealand|1911|6}} for the Royal Navy, which saw action throughout World War I in Europe. The passing of the [[Naval Defence Act 1913]] created the [[New Zealand Naval Forces]], still a part of the Royal Navy. The first ship given by the British government for the New Zealand Naval Forces was the [[cruiser]] {{HMS|Philomel|1890|6}}, which escorted New Zealand land forces to [[Occupation of German Samoa|occupy the German colony of Samoa]] in 1914. ''Philomel'' saw further action under the command of the Royal Navy in the Mediterranean, the [[Red Sea]], and the [[Persian Gulf]]. By 1917 she was worn out and was sent back to New Zealand where she served as a depot ship in [[Wellington Harbour]] for minesweepers. In 1921 she was transferred to Auckland for use as a training ship.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://nzhistory.govt.nz/war/royal-new-zealand-navy|title = The Royal New Zealand Navy}}</ref>

The New Zealand Naval Forces passed to the control of [[Commander-in-Chief, China]], after the Royal Navy forces in Australia came under Canberra's control in 1911. From 1921 to 1941 the force was known as the [[New Zealand Division of the Royal Navy]].<ref>McGibbon, Ian (2000). ''The Oxford Companion to New Zealand Military History''. Auckland: Oxford University Press. {{ISBN|0-19-558376-0}}, pp.45–46</ref> The cruiser ''Chatham'' along with the sloop ''Veronica'' arrived in 1920, ''Philomel'' was transferred to the Division in 1921, as was the sloop ''Torch'', {{HMS|Laburnum}} arrived in 1922 and then {{HMS|Dunedin}} in 1924. {{HMS|Diomede|D92|6}} and the minesweeper [[HMNZS Wakakura (T00)|HMS ''Wakakura'']] arrived in 1926. Between World War I and World War II, the New Zealand Division operated a total of 14 ships, including the cruisers [[HMNZS Achilles (70)|HMS ''Achilles'']] (joined 31 March 1937) and [[HMNZS Leander|HMS ''Leander'']], which replaced ''Diomede'' and ''Dunedin'' (replaced by ''Leander'' in 1937).

===World War II===
[[File:USS St. Louis (CL-49) and HMNZS Leander firing during the Battle of Kolombangara, 13 July 1943 (80-G-342763).jpg|thumb|HMNZS ''Leander'' and USS
''St. Louis'' fire on ''Jintsu'']]

When Britain went to war against Germany in 1939, New Zealand officially declared war at the same time, backdated to 9.30&nbsp;pm on 3 September local time. But the gathering in Parliament in [[Carl Berendsen]]'s room (including [[Peter Fraser]]) could not follow Chamberlain's words because of static on the shortwave and waited until the Admiralty notified the fleet that war had broken out before Cabinet approved the declaration of war (the official telegram from Britain was delayed and arrived just before midnight).<ref>{{cite book |last=Hensley |first=Gerald |date=2009 |title=Beyond the Battlefield: New Zealand and its Allies 1939–45 |location=North Shore Auckland |publisher=Viking/Penguin |isbn=978-06-700-7404-4 |page=20}}</ref>

{{HMS|Achilles|70|6}} participated in the first major naval battle of World War II, the [[Battle of the River Plate]] off the [[Río de la Plata|River Plate estuary]] between [[Argentina]] and [[Uruguay]], in December 1939.<ref>''The Royal New Zealand Navy, Official History of New Zealand in the Second World War'', [http://nzetc.victoria.ac.nz/tm/scholarly/tei-WH2Navy-c2.html "Chapter 2: Outbreak of War: Cruise of HMS Achilles"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181005003412/http://nzetc.victoria.ac.nz//tm/scholarly/tei-WH2Navy-c2.html |date=5 October 2018 }}, Historical Publications Branch, Wellington, 1956.</ref> ''Achilles'' and two other cruisers, {{HMS|Ajax|22|6}} and {{HMS|Exeter|68|6}}, severely damaged the German [[pocket battleship]] [[German pocket battleship Admiral Graf Spee|''Admiral Graf Spee'']]. The German Captain [[Hans Langsdorff]] then scuttled ''Graf Spee'' rather than face the loss of many more German seamen's lives.

[[File:HMNZS Achilles (AWM P03626-012).jpg|thumb|{{HMNZS|Achilles|70|6}}]]
{{external media
| headerimage=
| float  = right
| width  = 285px
| video1 = [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vYxsvfiwj4A&ab_channel=Drachinifel HMNZS Kiwi and Moa versus submarine ''I-1'': David versus Goliath at Sea] – ''Drachinifel''
}}

''Achilles'' moved to the Pacific, and was working with the [[United States Navy]] (USN) when damaged by a Japanese bomb off [[New Georgia]]. Following repair, she served alongside the [[British Pacific Fleet]] until the war's end.

The New Zealand Division of the Royal Navy became the Royal New Zealand Navy (RNZN) on 1 October 1941, in recognition of the fact that the naval force was now largely self-sufficient and independent of the Royal Navy. The Prime Minister [[Peter Fraser]] reluctantly agreed, though saying "now was not the time to break away from the old country".{{sfn|McGibbon|1981|p=374}} Ships thereafter were prefixed HMNZS (His/Her Majesty's New Zealand Ship).

{{HMNZS|Leander}} escorted the [[New Zealand Expeditionary Force]] to the Middle East in 1940 and was then deployed in the Mediterranean, the Red Sea, and the Indian Ocean. ''Leander'' was subjected to air and naval attack from [[Axis Powers|Axis]] forces, conducted bombardments, and escorted convoys. In February 1941, ''Leander'' sank the Italian auxiliary cruiser {{ship||Ramb I}} in the Indian Ocean. In 1943, after serving further time in the Mediterranean, ''Leander'' returned to the Pacific Ocean. She assisted in the destruction of the {{ship|Japanese cruiser|Jintsu}} and was seriously damaged by torpedoes during the [[Battle of Kolombangara]]. The extent of the damage to ''Leander'' saw her docked for repairs until the end of the war.

As the war progressed, the size of the RNZN greatly increased, and by the end of the war, there were over 60 ships in commission. These ships participated as part of the British and [[Commonwealth of Nations|Commonwealth]] effort against the [[Axis Powers|Axis]] in Europe, and against the Japanese in the Pacific. They also played an important role in the defence of New Zealand, from German [[Merchant raider|raiders]], especially when the threat of invasion from Japan appeared imminent in 1942. Many merchant ships were requisitioned and armed for help in defence. One of these was {{HMNZS|Monowai|F59|6}}, which saw action against the {{warship|Japanese submarine|I-20}} off [[Fiji]] in 1942. In 1941–1942, it was decided in an agreement between the New Zealand and United States governments that the best role for the RNZN in the Pacific was as part of the [[United States Navy]], so operational control of the RNZN was transferred to the [[South West Pacific Area|South West Pacific Area command]], and its ships joined [[United States 7th Fleet]] taskforces.

In 1943, the light cruiser {{HMS|Gambia|C48|6}} was transferred to the RNZN as HMNZS ''Gambia''. In November 1944, the [[British Pacific Fleet]], a joint British Commonwealth [[military formation]], was formed, based in [[Sydney, Australia]]. Most RNZN ships, including ''Gambia'' and ''Achilles'', were transferred to the BPF. They took part in the [[Battle of Okinawa]] and operations in the [[Sakishima Islands]], near Japan. In August 1945, HMNZS ''Gambia'' was New Zealand's representative at the [[surrender of Japan]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://nzhistory.govt.nz/war/royal-new-zealand-navy/second-world-war|title=Second World War|website=nzhistory.govt.nz}}</ref>

===Post-World War II===
[[Image:HMNZS Royalist in Waitemata Harbour, 1956.jpg|thumb|right|[[HMS Royalist (89)|HMNZS ''Royalist'']] in Waitemata Harbour, 1956]]

During April 1947 [[1947 Royal New Zealand Navy mutinies|a series of non-violent mutinies]] occurred amongst the sailors and non-commissioned officers of four RNZN ships and two shore bases. Overall, up to 20% of the sailors in the RNZN were involved in the mutinies. The resulting manpower shortage forced the RNZN to remove the light cruiser {{HMS|Black Prince|81|2}}, one of their most powerful warships, from service and set the navy's development and expansion back by a decade. Despite this impact, the size and scope of the events have been downplayed over time.<ref>{{cite book |last=Frame |first=Tom |author2=Baker, Kevin |title=Mutiny! Naval Insurrections in Australia and New Zealand |publisher=Allen & Unwin |location=St. Leonards, NSW |year=2000 |isbn=1-86508-351-8 |oclc=46882022|page=185}}</ref>

RNZN ships participated in the [[Korean War]]. On 29 June, just four days after 135,000 [[North Korea]]n troops crossed the 38th parallel in [[Korea]], the New Zealand government ordered two {{sclass2|Loch|frigate|0}} frigates – {{HMNZS|Tutira|F420|2}} and {{HMNZS|Pukaki|F424|2}} to prepare to make for Korean waters, and for the whole of the war, at least two NZ vessels would be on station in the theater.<ref name="KOR">''Korean Scholarships'' – ''Navy Today'', Defence Public Relations Unit, Issue 133, 8 June, Page 14-15</ref>

On 3 July these two first ships left [[Devonport Naval Base]], [[Auckland]] and joined other [[Commonwealth of Nations|Commonwealth]] forces at [[Sasebo, Nagasaki|Sasebo]], Japan, on 2 August. These vessels served under the command of a British flag officer (seemingly [[Flag Officer Second in Command Far East Fleet]])<ref>"Coalition Air Warfare in the Korean War, 1950–1953": ''Proceedings, Air Force Historical Foundation Symposium, Andrews AFB, Maryland, 7–8 May 2002'', 142 onwards</ref> and formed part of the [[US Navy]] screening force during the [[Battle of Inchon]], performing shore raids and inland bombardment. Further RNZN ''Loch''-class frigates joined these later – {{HMNZS|Rotoiti|F625|2}}, {{HMNZS|Hawea|F422|2}}, {{HMNZS|Taupo|F423|2}} and {{HMNZS|Kaniere|F426|2}}, as well as a number of smaller craft. Only one RNZN sailor was killed during the conflict – during the Inchon bombardments.

The Navy later participated in the [[Malayan Emergency]]. In 1954 a New Zealand frigate, [[HMNZS Pukaki|HMNZS ''Pukaki'']], carried out a bombardment of a suspected guerilla camp, while operating with the [[Royal Navy]]'s [[Far East Fleet]] – the first of a number of bombardments by RNZN ships over the next five years. [[Jack Welch (admiral)|Jack Welch]], later to become [[Chief of Navy (New Zealand)|Chief of Naval Staff]] decades later, wrote that in 1959, the RNZN "was still very much part of the [[Royal Navy]] supported by New Zealand tax-payers. The officer corps and senior specialist ratings were very dependent on loan and exchange RN personnel, while our own [New Zealand] officers and senior ratings were almost exclusively trained in the UK. We simply borrowed the RN's administrative regulations and amended them to local conditions. The Empire was alive and well. Operationally we were still very strongly tied to the UK."<ref>Rear Admiral J.E.N. Welch, former Chief of Naval Staff, "The Critical Size of Our Combat Fleet," Centre for Strategic Studies New Zealand, “Papers on the Interim Report of the Defence Beyond 2000 Inquiry of the Parliamentary Select Committee on Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade: From the Seminar of New Zealand’s Defence” (Wellington: Centre for Strategic Studies, April 15, 1999).</ref>

Later the Navy return to Malayan waters during the [[Indonesia-Malaysia confrontation]]. These operations were the RNZN's last large-scale operation with the Royal Navy. In a security crisis and threat to Malaysia and Sarawak and Brunei, two-thirds of the Royal Navy's operational warships were deployed from 1963 to the end of 1966 with {{HMS|Royalist|89|2}}, {{HMNZS|Taranaki||2}}, and {{ship|HMNZS|Otago|F111|2}}, heavily involved in boarding ships, shore patrols, presence, maintaining the use of seaways and support of the RN's amphibious carriers. The commitment, wrote Welch, "involved the whole fleet, as ships rotated though [[Pearl Harbor]] for workup with the USN before deploying on to the Far East to relieve ships on station."<ref>Welch, "The Critical Size of Our Combat Fleet."</ref>

Until the 1960s the RNZN had, in common with other [[Dominion]] navies, flown the [[White Ensign]] as a common ensign. After 1945, the foreign policies of the now-independent states had become more distinctive. There was a growing wish and a need for separate identities, particularly if one Dominion was engaged in hostilities where another was not. Thus, in 1968, the RNZN adopted its own ensign, which retained the [[Union Flag]] in a top quarter but replaces the [[St George's Cross]] with the [[Southern Cross]] constellation that is displayed on the national flag.

Since 1946 the Navy has policed New Zealand's [[territorial waters]] and [[exclusive economic zone]] for fisheries protection. It also aids New Zealand's scientific activities in Antarctica, at [[Scott Base]].

One of the best-known roles that the RNZN played on the world stage was when the frigates {{HMNZS|Canterbury|F421|2}} and {{HMNZS|Otago||2}} were sent by the [[New Zealand Labour Party|Labour]] Government of [[Norman Kirk]] to [[Moruroa|Moruroa Atoll]] in 1973 to protest against French [[Nuclear weapon|nuclear]] testing there. The frigates were sent into the potential blast zone of the weapons, where both ships witnessed one airburst test each which forced France to then change to underground testing.

In May 1982 Prime Minister [[Rob Muldoon]] seconded the frigate ''Canterbury'' to the Royal Navy for the duration of the [[Falklands War]]. ''Canterbury'' was deployed to the [[Armilla Patrol]] in the [[Persian Gulf]], to relieve a British frigate for duty in the South Atlantic. ''Canterbury'' was herself relieved by {{HMNZS|Waikato|F55|2}} in August.<ref>[http://www.exrnznnavyclub.org.nz/index.php/articles/personal-stories/hmnzs-canterbury-81-82.html Ex RNZN Navy Club – HMNZS Canterbury 1981/82 Commission] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130504155404/http://www.exrnznnavyclub.org.nz/index.php/articles/personal-stories/hmnzs-canterbury-81-82.html |date=4 May 2013 }}</ref>

===Post-Cold War===
[[Image:20110928 WN S1015660 0018.jpg - Flickr - NZ Defence Force.jpg|thumb|RNZN ships, Cook Strait, 2011]]

At the close of the [[Cold War]] the RNZN had an escort force of four frigates ({{HMNZS|Waikato|F55}}, {{HMNZS|Wellington|F69}}, {{HMNZS| Canterbury|F421}}, and [[HMS Dido (F104)|HMNZS ''Southland'' (F104)]]). Due to the cost of replacing four ships, the force was downsized to two. However, there was considerable political debate at times during the mid-1990s about whether a third and fourth [[Anzac-class frigate|Anzac-class]] frigate should be procured.<ref>Greener, ''Timing is everything'', p. 86</ref>

Since the 1990s, the RNZN has operated in the Middle East on numerous occasions. RNZN ships played a role in the [[Iran–Iraq War]], aiding the Royal Navy in protecting neutral shipping in the Indian Ocean. Frigates were also sent to participate in the first [[Gulf War]], and [[Operation Enduring Freedom]].<ref>[http://www.navy.mil.nz/nap/news/media-release.htm@guid=%7B1b8938dc-ca88-4744-9d4a-9fb3e0dae327%7D.htm Defence Force Mission In Afghanistan] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150114152332/http://navy.mil.nz/nap/news/media-release.htm@guid=%7B1b8938dc-ca88-4744-9d4a-9fb3e0dae327%7D.htm |date=14 January 2015 }} Updated: 24 April 2013.</ref> The RNZN has also played an important part in conflicts in the Pacific. Naval forces were utilised in the [[Bougainville Province|Bougainville]], [[Solomon Islands]] and [[East Timor]] conflicts of the 1990s. The RNZN often participates in [[United Nations]] [[peacekeeping]] operations.

The hydrographic survey ship of the RNZN until 2012 was {{HMNZS|Resolution}}, succeeding the long-serving {{HMNZS|Monowai|A06|6}}. ''Resolution'' was used to survey and chart the sea around New Zealand and the Pacific Islands. A small motor boat, SMB ''Adventure'', was operated from ''Resolution''. ''Resolution'' carried some of the most advanced survey technology available.<ref>[http://www.navy.mil.nz/mtf/resolution/default.htm "RNZN – HMNZS ''Resolution''"]. RNZN Official Website.{{dead link|date=July 2012}}</ref> HMNZS ''Resolution'' was decommissioned at Devonport Naval Base on 27 April 2012,<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.nzdf.mil.nz/news/media-releases/2012/20120402-bvwlvfhr.htm |title=New Zealand Defence Force – "Bon Voyage Wellington" – Last Visit from HMNZS Resolution |access-date=19 July 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150115153033/http://nzdf.mil.nz/news/media-releases/2012/20120402-bvwlvfhr.htm |archive-date=15 January 2015 |url-status=live |df=dmy-all }}</ref> and was replaced by {{HMNZS|Manawanui|2019}}, which was commissioned on 7 June 2019.<ref name=NZDFa>{{cite web |title=HMNZS Manawanui |url= https://www.nzdf.mil.nz/navy/our-equipment/ships-and-watercraft/hmnzs-manawanui/ |publisher=Royal New Zealand Navy |access-date=7 May 2025 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250213203303/https://www.nzdf.mil.nz/navy/our-equipment/ships-and-watercraft/hmnzs-manawanui/|archive-date=13 February 2025|url-status=live}}</ref>

In October 2021 the Defence Force contributed {{HMNZS|Te Kaha}} to the [[UK Carrier Strike Group]]'s transit through the [[South China Sea]]. This deployment sought to reiterate New Zealand's support for free international passage through the South China Sea, which has been claimed by China as part of its territorial waters.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Ensor |first1=Jamie |title=New Zealand warship sailing disputed South China Sea as Taiwan warns 'we will fight to end' if China attacks |url=https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/new-zealand/2021/10/new-zealand-warship-sailing-disputed-south-china-sea-as-taiwan-warns-we-will-fight-to-end-if-china-attacks.html |access-date=27 November 2023 |work=[[Newshub]] |date=6 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220617005140/https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/new-zealand/2021/10/new-zealand-warship-sailing-disputed-south-china-sea-as-taiwan-warns-we-will-fight-to-end-if-china-attacks.html |archive-date=17 June 2022}}</ref> In June 2023, {{HMNZS|Te Mana}} was confronted by two [[People's Liberation Army Navy]] frigates, helicopters, and four other vessels near the disputed [[Spratly Islands]].<ref>{{cite news |last1=Cleave |first1=Louisa |last2=Penfold |first2=Paula |title=NZ frigate confronted by Chinese navy in South China Seas, investigation reveals |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/300907470/nz-frigate-confronted-by-chinese-navy-in-south-china-seas-investigation-reveals |access-date=27 November 2023 |work=[[Stuff (website)|Stuff]] |date=18 June 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231107083342/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/300907470/nz-frigate-confronted-by-chinese-navy-in-south-china-seas-investigation-reveals |archive-date=7 November 2023}}</ref>

In late September 2024 [[Minister of Defence (New Zealand)|Defence Minister]] [[Judith Collins]] confirmed that [[HMNZS Aotearoa|HMNZS ''Aotearoa'']] had sailed through the disputed [[Taiwan Strait]] with {{HMAS|Sydney}}. In response, a spokesperson for the [[Ministry of Foreign Affairs (China)|Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs]] stated that [[China]] "handles foreign warships' transit through the Taiwan Strait in accordance with laws and regulations".<ref>{{cite news |last1=Chittock |first1=Niva |title=NZ naval vessel sailing through Taiwan Strait 'routine movement' – Defence Minister |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/529229/nz-naval-vessel-sailing-through-taiwan-strait-routine-movement-defence-minister |access-date=30 September 2024 |work=[[RNZ]] |date=27 September 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240927190112/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/529229/nz-naval-vessel-sailing-through-taiwan-strait-routine-movement-defence-minister |archive-date=27 September 2024|url-status=live}}</ref> On 29 September HMNZS ''Aotearoa'' took part in a joint maritime patrol with Australian, Filipino, Japanese and United States warships and aircraft in the disputed [[South China Sea]], which has also been claimed by China.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Lariosa |first1=Aaron-Matthew |title=Warships from the Philippines, Australia, New Zealand, U.S. and Japan Sail in Joint South China Sea Patrol |url=https://news.usni.org/2024/09/29/warships-from-the-philippines-australia-new-zealand-u-s-and-japan-sail-in-joint-south-china-sea-patrol |publisher=[[United States Naval Institute]] |access-date=30 September 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240930012248/https://news.usni.org/2024/09/29/warships-from-the-philippines-australia-new-zealand-u-s-and-japan-sail-in-joint-south-china-sea-patrol |archive-date=30 September 2024 |date=29 September 2024 |url-status=live}}</ref>

On 5 October 2024 [[HMNZS Manawanui (2019)|HMNZS ''Manawanui'']] ran aground and sank off the coast of [[Siumu]], on the south coast of [[Upolu]] island, [[Samoa]], while surveying a nearby reef during a storm.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Yee |first1=Isaac |title=New Zealand loses first naval ship since WWII; vessel threatening oil spill off Samoan coast |url=https://www.cnn.com/2024/10/07/world/new-zealand-navy-ship-sinks-intl-hnk/index.html |website=[[CNN]] |date=7 October 2024 |access-date=7 May 2025 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250218045340/https://www.cnn.com/2024/10/07/world/new-zealand-navy-ship-sinks-intl-hnk/index.html|archive-date=18 February 2025|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.samoaobserver.ws/category/samoa/111420 |title=NZ navy ship sinks, oil smell fills village air |work=Samoa Observer |author=Sialai Sarafina Sanerivi |date=6 October 2024 |access-date=7 May 2025|archive-date=7 October 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241007020258/https://www.samoaobserver.ws/category/samoa/111420 |url-status=live }}</ref> HMNZS ''Manawanui'' became the first RNZN vessel to be unintentionally sunk since the Second World War and the first to be lost in peacetime.<ref>{{cite news |title=HMNZS Manawanui: What we know about the ship's sinking |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/529979/hmnzs-manawanui-what-we-know-about-the-ship-s-sinking |access-date=6 October 2024 |work=[[Radio New Zealand]] |date=6 October 2024 |language=en-nz |archive-date=7 October 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241007020247/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/529979/hmnzs-manawanui-what-we-know-about-the-ship-s-sinking |url-status=live}}</ref> On 4 April 2025, a naval court of inquiry concluded that the warship sank due to a series of human errors and launched a disciplinary inquiry.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Leahy |first1=Ben |title=HMNZS Manawanui sank on Samoan reef due to human error report finds, 'disciplinary investigation' underway |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/final-report-into-why-hmnzs-manawanui-hit-samoan-reef-and-sunk-is-delivered/BO54AC2ZFNH6JJXRALPSUHJYHI/ |access-date=4 April 2025 |work=[[The New Zealand Herald]] |date=4 April 2025 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250404031212/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/final-report-into-why-hmnzs-manawanui-hit-samoan-reef-and-sunk-is-delivered/BO54AC2ZFNH6JJXRALPSUHJYHI/ |archive-date=4 April 2025}}</ref> On 19 January 2025, [[Judith Collins]] confirmed that ''Manawanui'' would not be replaced, with ''[[HMNZS Otago (P148)]]'' taking on the ships role, though lacking the working space and specialised equipment.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.1news.co.nz/2025/01/19/hmnzs-manawanui-will-not-be-replaced-government-says/|title=HMNZS Manawanui will not be replaced, Government says|date=19 January 2025|access-date=9 May 2025}}</ref>

On 6 May 2025, Defence Minister Collins confirmed that the Government would allocate NZ$2 billion (US$1.2 billion) from its four-year NZ$12 billion defence funding allocation to purchasing new maritime helicopters for the Navy.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Collins |first1=Judith |title=New helicopters a commitment to global security |url=https://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/new-helicopters-commitment-global-security |website=Beehive.govt.nz |publisher=[[New Zealand Government]] |access-date=7 May 2025 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250504111411/https://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/new-helicopters-commitment-global-security |archive-date=4 May 2025 |date=4 May 2025 |url-status=live}}</ref>
On 21 August, Collins and [[Minister of Foreign Affairs (New Zealand)|Foreign Minister]] [[Winston Peters]] announced that the Government would purchase five new [[MH-60R Seahawk]]s for the Navy.<ref>{{cite news |last1=McDonnell |first1=Glenn |title=Ministers confirm replacements for aging Defence Force aircraft |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/politics/360798421/ministers-considering-replacements-air-force-troop-and-vip-jets |access-date=21 August 2025 |work=[[Stuff (website)|Stuff]] |date=21 August 2025 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250821232200/https://www.stuff.co.nz/politics/360798421/ministers-considering-replacements-air-force-troop-and-vip-jets |archive-date=21 August 2025 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=New planes, helicopters for Defence Force |url=https://www.1news.co.nz/2025/08/21/new-planes-helicopters-for-defence-force/ |access-date=21 August 2025 |work=[[1News]] |date=21 August 2025 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250821232434/https://www.1news.co.nz/2025/08/21/new-planes-helicopters-for-defence-force/ |archive-date=21 August 2025 |url-status=live}}</ref>
<gallery>
File:Naval Ensign of the United Kingdom.svg|White Ensign 1945–1968
File:Naval Ensign of New Zealand.svg|White Ensign 1968–present
</gallery>

==Ships and aircraft==
[[File:HMNZS Te Mana (cropped).jpg|thumb|The ''[[Anzac-class frigate|Anzac-class]]'' [[frigate]] [[HMNZS Te Mana (F111)|HMNZS ''Te Mana (F111)'']].]]

===Current===
{{main|List of active Royal New Zealand Navy ships}}

====Naval Combat Force====
[[File:MC 10-0422-004 - Flickr - NZ Defence Force.jpg| thumb|right|Both Protector-class offshore patrol vessels in 2010]]
The Combat Force consists of two [[Anzac-class frigate|''Anzac-class'']] frigates: [[HMNZS Te Kaha|HMNZS ''Te Kaha'']]<ref>{{Cite web |title=HMNZS Te Kaha |url=https://www.nzdf.mil.nz/navy/our-equipment/ships-and-watercraft/hmnzs-te-kaha/ |access-date=2022-09-01 |website=www.nzdf.mil.nz |language=en-NZ}}</ref> and [[HMNZS Te Mana (F111)|HMNZS ''Te Mana'']].<ref>{{Cite web |title=HMNZS Te Mana |url=https://www.nzdf.mil.nz/navy/our-equipment/ships-and-watercraft/hmnzs-te-mana/ |access-date=2022-09-01 |website=www.nzdf.mil.nz |language=en-NZ}}</ref> Two more frigates were planned, but were cancelled due to political pressure surrounding defence expenditure following the New Zealand breakup of military relations with [[ANZUS]] in 1986. [[HMNZS Te Kaha|HMNZS ''Te Kaha'']] was commissioned on 26 July 1997 and [[HMNZS Te Mana (F111)|HMNZS ''Te Mana'']] on 10 December 1999. Both ships completed the frigate systems upgrade in 2020 and 2022 respectively.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Anzac Frigate Upgrade Programmes - an overview|url=https://www.defence.govt.nz/our-work/equip/capability-projects/anzac-frigate-upgrade-programmes|access-date=2025-04-09|website=www.defence.govt.nz}}/</ref>

====Naval Patrol Force====
[[File:MC_10-0204-293_-_Flickr_-_NZ_Defence_Force.jpg|thumb|right| Inshore patrol vessel [[HMNZS Taupo (2008)|HMNZS ''Taupo (P3570)'']].]]

The Patrol Force consists of two offshore patrol vessels (OPVs) and two inshore patrol vessels (IPVs). The Patrol Force is responsible for policing New Zealand's Exclusive Economic Zone, one of the largest in the world. In addition, the Patrol Force provides assistance to a range of civilian government agencies, including the Department of Conservation, New Zealand Customs and Police, Ministry of Fisheries and others. Originally two OPVs and four IPVs were acquired under [[Project Protector]], but two of the four were sold to Ireland in 2022.<ref>{{cite web|date=2022-03-14|title=Two former RNZN Inshore Patrol Vessels sold to The Republic of Ireland|url=https://www.nzdf.mil.nz/media-centre/news/two-former-rnzn-inshore-patrol-vessels-sold-to-the-republic-of-ireland/|access-date=2025-04-09|website= nzdf.mil.nz/}}</ref> The Patrol Force in 2025 consists of:
* 2 {{sclass2|Protector|offshore patrol vessel|2}}<nowiki/>s ({{HMNZS|Otago|P148|6}}<ref>{{Cite web |title=HMNZS Otago |url=https://www.nzdf.mil.nz/navy/our-equipment/ships-and-watercraft/hmnzs-otago/ |website=www.nzdf.mil.nz |language=en-NZ|access-date=2022-09-01}}</ref> and {{HMNZS|Wellington|P55|6}}<ref>{{Cite web |title=HMNZS Wellington |url=https://www.nzdf.mil.nz/navy/our-equipment/ships-and-watercraft/hmnzs-wellington/ |website=www.nzdf.mil.nz |language=en-NZ|access-date=2022-09-01}}</ref>)
* 2 {{sclass2|Lake|inshore patrol vessel|2}}<nowiki/>s ({{HMNZS|Taupo|2008|6}}<ref>{{Cite web |title=HMNZS Taupo |url=https://www.nzdf.mil.nz/navy/our-equipment/ships-and-watercraft/hmnzs-taupo/ |access-date=2025-04-09 |website=www.nzdf.mil.nz |language=en-NZ}}</ref> and {{HMNZS|Hawea|2007|6}}<ref>{{Cite web |title=HMNZS Hawea |url=https://www.nzdf.mil.nz/navy/our-equipment/ships-and-watercraft/hmnzs-hawea/ |access-date=2025-04-09 |website=www.nzdf.mil.nz |language=en-NZ}}</ref>)
[[File:HMNZS Aotearoa departs after refueling USCGC Midgett during RIMPAC 2022.jpg|thumb|Replenishment ship [[HMNZS Aotearoa|HMNZS ''Aotearoa'']]''.'']]

====Naval Support Force====
* {{HMNZS|Canterbury|L421|6}}, a multi-role vessel that entered service in June 2007.<ref>{{Cite web |title=HMNZS Canterbury |url=https://www.nzdf.mil.nz/navy/our-equipment/ships-and-watercraft/hmnzs-canterbury/ |access-date=2022-09-01 |website=www.nzdf.mil.nz |language=en-NZ}}</ref>
* {{HMNZS|Aotearoa}}, a replenishment oiler commissioned in 2020.<ref>{{Cite web |title=HMNZS Aotearoa |url=https://www.nzdf.mil.nz/navy/our-equipment/ships-and-watercraft/hmnzs-aotearoa/ |access-date=2022-09-01 |website=www.nzdf.mil.nz |language=en-NZ}}</ref>
[[File:Seasprite helicopter, RNZAF; 2014.jpg|thumb|RNZN [[Kaman SH-2G Super Seasprite|SH-2G(I) Super Seasprite]] [[helicopter]].]]

==== Littoral Warfare Support Force ====
The Littoral Warfare Support Force consisted of {{HMNZS|Manawanui|2019|6}}, a dive and hydrographic vessel commissioned in 2019,<ref>{{Cite web |title=HMNZS Manawanui |url=https://www.nzdf.mil.nz/navy/our-equipment/ships-and-watercraft/hmnzs-manawanui/ |access-date=2022-09-01 |website=www.nzdf.mil.nz |language=en-NZ}}</ref> which sank off the coast of Samoa on 6 October 2024, and HMNZS ''Matataua.''

===== Hydrographic survey and clearance diving =====
HMNZS ''Matataua'' was a land-based unit (a [[stone frigate]]) commissioned in 2017 (previously the Littoral Warfare Support Force, the Littoral Warfare Support Group, and most recently the Littoral Warfare Unit) with two operational groups, one for military hydrographic survey and the other clearance diving, and a logistics support group.<ref>{{cite web |title=Navy: Our structure |url=https://www.nzdf.mil.nz/navy/our-structure/ |access-date=22 January 2022 |publisher=New Zealand Defence Force}}</ref> Detachments from ''Matataua'' embarked on ''Manawanui'' when the ship was conducting survey and/or diving operations. ''Matataua'' was responsible for ensuring access to and the use of harbours, inshore waters and associated littoral zones through shallow water and coastal survey, mine-countermeasures and explosive ordnance disposal, beach survey and reconnaissance in support of amphibious operations, and underwater engineering.<ref name="LWSF2016">{{cite web |title=Littoral Warfare Support Force |url=http://navy.mil.nz/mtf/lwsf/default.htm |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160327053327/http://navy.mil.nz/mtf/lwsf/default.htm |archive-date=27 March 2016 |website=Royal New Zealand Navy}}</ref> ''Matataua'' also provided underwater search and recovery support to the [[New Zealand Police|NZ Police]],<ref>{{cite magazine |last1=Leslie |first1=Trevor |date=March 2015 |title=Dive Team Bomb Disposal – doctrine explained and new equipment described |url=http://www.navy.mil.nz/downloads/pdf/navy-today/nt187.pdf |url-status=dead |magazine=Navy Today – official magazine of the Royal New Zealand Navy |issue=187 |page=26 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170406090648/http://navy.mil.nz/downloads/pdf/navy-today/nt187.pdf |archive-date=6 April 2017 |access-date=3 January 2017 |df=dmy-all}}</ref><ref name="Diver2015">{{cite web |title=Diver |url=http://www.defencecareers.mil.nz/navy/jobs/diver |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160106150745/http://www.defencecareers.mil.nz/navy/jobs/diver |archive-date=6 January 2016 |access-date=17 December 2015 |work=Defence Careers |df=dmy-all}}</ref> and other government and civil agencies as requested and approved through [[Headquarters Joint Forces New Zealand]].

====Aviation====
{{main|No. 6 Squadron RNZAF}}

The Royal New Zealand Air Force operates eight [[Kaman SH-2G Super Seasprite|Kaman SH-2G(I) Super Seasprite]] helicopters.<ref>{{Cite web |title=SH-2G(I) Seasprite Helicopter |url=https://www.nzdf.mil.nz/navy/our-equipment/aircraft/sh-2gi-seasprite-helicopter/ |access-date=1 September 2022 |website=www.nzdf.mil.nz |publisher=[[New Zealand Defence Force]]|language=en-NZ}}</ref> In August 2025 it was announced the Super Seasprites will be replaced by 5 [[Sikorsky SH-60 Seahawk|MH-60 Seahawks]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=New aircraft for the RNZAF|url=https://scramble.nl/military-news/new-aircraft-for-the-rnzaf |access-date=23 August 2025|website=Scramble|publisher=Dutch Aviation Society }}</ref> These aircraft are part of [[No. 6 Squadron RNZAF]] based at [[RNZAF Base Auckland]]. The aircraft are operated by RNZN aviators and are assigned to RNZN ships as required.{{citation needed|date=October 2024}} The roles of the helicopters include:
* Surveillance
* Surface warfare 
* Underwater warfare
* Helicopter delivery services/logistics
* Search and rescue
* Medical evacuation
* Training
* Assistance to other [[New Zealand Government|Government]] agencies

==== Non-commissioned vessels ====
A number of non-commissioned auxiliary vessels are used for a number or littoral, support and training purposes.

* Three Chico 40 [[sail training]] [[yacht]]s (''Manga II, Mako II, Paea II).''<ref>{{Cite web |title=Sail Training Craft |url=https://www.nzdf.mil.nz/navy/our-equipment/ships-and-watercraft/sail-training-craft/ |access-date=2022-09-01 |website=www.nzdf.mil.nz |language=en-NZ}}</ref>
* Two [[Landing Craft Mechanized|Landing Craft Mechanised]] [[landing craft]] (''LC01, LC02) -'' Used aboard ''[[HMNZS Canterbury (L421)|HMNZS Canterbury]].''
* Three Littoral Manoeuvre Craft.<ref>{{Cite web |title=First LMC delivered to NZDF – Australian Defence Magazine |url=https://www.australiandefence.com.au/defence/sea/first-lmc-delivered-to-nzdf |access-date=2023-07-29 |website=www.australiandefence.com.au |language=en}}</ref>
* Two Surtees Workmate hydrographic and diving support launches (''Pathfinder'', ''Hammerhead'').<ref>{{Cite web |title=Pathfinder and Hammerhead workboats |url=https://www.nzdf.mil.nz/navy/our-equipment/ships-and-watercraft/pathfinder-and-hammerhead-workboats/ |access-date=2022-09-01 |website=www.nzdf.mil.nz |language=en-NZ}}</ref>
* One VIP (Admiral's) Barge.
* Nine Zodiac Hurricane RHIBs.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |title=Royal New Zealand Navy issues RFI to replace RHIBs |url=https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/royal-new-zealand-navy-issues-rfi-to-replace-rhibs |access-date=2023-09-24 |website=Janes.com |date=28 May 2021 |language=en}}</ref>
* 26 Zodiac Milpro J3 RHIBs.<ref name=":0" />

==== Unmanned vehicles ====
[[File:Flickr - Official U.S. Navy Imagery - New Zealand sailors work with remote vehicle.jpg|thumb|Members of the Royal New Zealand Navy's Military Hydrographic Group deploy an autonomous underwater vehicle, a REMUS 100, during an international military exercise.]]
The RNZN operates a small number of [[autonomous underwater vehicle]]s,<ref>{{Cite web |last=Felton |first=Benjamin |date=2022-08-29 |title=New Zealand is about to receive new REMUS 300 drones |url=https://www.navalnews.com/naval-news/2022/08/new-zealand-is-about-to-receive-new-remus-300-drones/ |access-date=2022-09-01 |website=Naval News |language=en-US}}</ref> as well as, from late 2024, two uncrewed surface vessels known as ''Bluebottles''.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.australiandefence.com.au/news/news/ocius-unveils-bluebottles-for-rnzn-ran|title = Ocius unveils Bluebottles for RNZN, RAN|date = 2 December 2024}}</ref> The two vessels were christened ''Tahi'' and ''Rua''.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.janes.com/osint-insights/defence-news/sea/new-zealand-navy-acquires-two-bluebottle-usvs|title = New Zealand navy acquires two Bluebottle USVs|date = 29 April 2025}}</ref>
{| class="wikitable"
|+
!Autonomous Underwater Vehicle
!Quantity
|-
|[[REMUS (AUV)|REMUS 100]]
|6
|-
|[[REMUS (AUV)|REMUS 300]]
|4
|}
The RNZN does not operate any ship-based unmanned aerial systems. However, according to a recent tender document, there exists some considerable scope for the acquisition of new systems.

===Future===
{{main|Future of the Royal New Zealand Navy}}

==Role==
===Defence===

{{see also|New Zealand Defence Force}}

In its Statement of Intent, the NZDF states its primary mission as:

:"to secure New Zealand from external threat, to protect our sovereign interests, including in the [[Exclusive Economic Zone]] (EEZ) and to be able to take action to meet likely contingencies in our strategic area of interest."<ref>[http://www.nzdf.mil.nz/nr/rdonlyres/e0170242-9fc5-40c3-b0a9-d89218a51665/0/nzdfsoi2005.pdf "NZDF Statement of Intent"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20061108041257/http://www.nzdf.mil.nz/nr/rdonlyres/e0170242-9fc5-40c3-b0a9-d89218a51665/0/nzdfsoi2005.pdf |date=8 November 2006 }}. NZDF Official Website. Accessed 28 April 2006.</ref>

The intermediate outcomes of the NZDF are listed as:
# Secure New Zealand, including its people, land, [[territorial waters]], exclusive economic zone, natural resources and critical infrastructure.
# Reduced risks to New Zealand from regional and global insecurity.
# New Zealand values and interests advanced through participation in regional and international security systems.
# New Zealand is able to meet future national security challenges.<ref>[http://www.nzdf.mil.nz/at-a-glance/outcomes-and-objectives.htm "NZDF Outcomes and Objectives"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120511184713/http://nzdf.mil.nz/at-a-glance/outcomes-and-objectives.htm |date=11 May 2012 }}. NZDF Official Website. Accessed 28 April 2006.</ref>

The role of the navy is to fulfil the maritime elements of the missions of the NZDF.

===International participation===
The RNZN has a role to help prevent any unrest occurring in New Zealand. This can be done by having a presence in overseas waters and assisting redevelopment in troubled countries. For example, any unrest in the [[Pacific Islands]] has the potential to affect New Zealand because of the large Pacific Island population. The stability of the South Pacific is considered in the interest of New Zealand. The navy has participated in peace-keeping and peace-making in
[[East Timor]], [[Bougainville Province|Bougainville]] and the [[Solomon Islands]], supporting land-based operations.

===Civilian roles===
[[File:HMNZS Te Mana (F111) alongside USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72), 30 July, 2008.jpg|thumb|RNZN frigate {{HMNZS|Te Mana|F111|6}} and {{USS|Abraham Lincoln|CVN-72|6}} in the [[North Arabian Sea]] during [[Operation Enduring Freedom]]]]

The 2002 Maritime Forces Review identified a number of roles that other government agencies required the RNZN to undertake. Approximately 1,400 days at sea are required to fulfil these roles annually.

Roles include patrolling the [[exclusive economic zone]], transport to offshore islands, and support for the [[New Zealand Customs Service]].

The RNZN formerly produced hydrographic information for [[Land Information New Zealand]] (LINZ) under a commercial contract arrangement, however with the decommissioning of the dedicated hydrographic survey ship HMNZS ''Resolution'' this has lapsed and the Navy now focuses on military hydrography. Hydrospatial<ref>{{Cite web |title=What Is 'Hydrospatial'? |url=https://www.hydro-international.com/content/article/what-is-hydrospatial |access-date=2023-07-29 |website=www.hydro-international.com |language=en}}</ref> information is still provided to LINZ but on an ad-hoc basis.

===Deployments===
{{expand section|date=May 2023}}
Since 2001, both ''Anzac''-class frigates have participated in the United States' [[Operation Enduring Freedom]] in the [[Persian Gulf]] and have conducted maritime patrol operations in support of American and allied efforts in [[Afghanistan]].{{citation needed|date=May 2023}}

The RNZN routinely deploys within its primary area of operations of the Southwest Pacific and Southern Ocean down to Antarctica<ref>{{Cite web |title=Successful resupply mission to Antarctica proves capability of NZ Navy ship |url=https://www.nzdf.mil.nz/media-centre/news/successful-resupply-mission-to-antarctica-proves-capability-of-nz-navy-ship/ |access-date=2023-07-29 |website=www.nzdf.mil.nz |language=en-NZ}}</ref> as directed by government, and to meet New Zealand's responsibilities in its search and rescue area.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Rescue Coordination Centre (RCCNZ) – Maritime NZ |url=https://www.maritimenz.govt.nz/about-us/what-we-do/safety-and-response/rescue-coordination-centre-rccnz/ |access-date=2023-07-29 |website=www.maritimenz.govt.nz}}</ref> Deployments further afield are conducted as required to meet the strategic intent of the Government of New Zealand.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Government of New Zealand |date=July 2018 |title=Strategic Defence Policy Statement 2018 |url=https://www.defence.govt.nz/assets/Uploads/8958486b29/Strategic-Defence-Policy-Statement-2018.pdf }}</ref>

==Personnel==
[[File:US Navy 040506-N-7586B-314 Sailors assigned to boarding team from the New Zealand frigate HMNZS Te Mana (F 111) man a Rigid Hull Inflatable Boat (RHIB) to conduct a search of fishing dhows in the area.jpg|thumb|A boarding team from HMNZS ''Te Mana'' during the ship's deployment to the Gulf of Oman in 2004]]

As of 30 June 2022, the RNZN consisted of 2,219 Regular Force personnel and 611 Naval Reserve personnel.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.defence.govt.nz/engage/defence-force-facts-and-figures/|title=Defence Force facts and figures &#124; Ministry of Defence Website|website=www.defence.govt.nz}}</ref>

===Reserves===

====Naval Reserve====

All regular force personnel on discharge from the RNZN are liable for service in the Royal New Zealand Naval Reserve. The Reserve has an active and inactive list. RNZN personnel can choose to serve four years in the Reserve on discharge.

====Volunteer Reserve====

The primary reserve component of the RNZN is the [[Royal New Zealand Naval Volunteer Reserve]] (RNZNVR), which is organised into four units based in Auckland (with a satellite unit at Tauranga), Wellington, Christchurch, and Dunedin:
* HMNZS ''Ngapona'': Naval Reserve, Auckland<ref>[http://www.navy.mil.nz/naval-reserve/hmnzs+ngapona/default.htm HMNZS ''Ngapona''] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111105192606/http://www.navy.mil.nz/naval-reserve/hmnzs+ngapona/default.htm |date=5 November 2011 }}. navy.mil.nz</ref>
* HMNZS ''Olphert'': Naval Reserve, Wellington<ref>[http://www.navy.mil.nz/naval-reserve/hmnzs+olphert/default.htm HMNZS ''Olphert''] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111105192304/http://www.navy.mil.nz/naval-reserve/hmnzs+olphert/default.htm |date=5 November 2011 }}. navy.mil.nz</ref>
* HMNZS ''Pegasus'': Naval Reserve, Christchurch<ref>[http://www.navy.mil.nz/naval-reserve/hmnzs+pegasus/default.htm HMNZS ''Pegasus''] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111105192340/http://www.navy.mil.nz/naval-reserve/hmnzs+pegasus/default.htm |date=5 November 2011 }}. navy.mil.nz</ref>
* HMNZS ''Toroa'': Naval Reserve, Dunedin<ref>[http://www.navy.mil.nz/naval-reserve/hmnzs+toroa/default.htm HMNZS ''Toroa''] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111105192247/http://www.navy.mil.nz/naval-reserve/hmnzs+toroa/default.htm |date=5 November 2011 }}. navy.mil.nz</ref>

At present civilians can join the RNZNVR in one of three branches: Administration, Sea Service (for service on inshore patrol vessels), and Maritime Trade Organisation (formerly Naval Control of Shipping). In addition ex-regular force personnel can now join the RNZNVR in their former branch and, depending on time out of the service, rank.

===Training===
Naval Ratings begin an 18-week basic training course (Basic Common Training (BCT)) prior to commencing their branch training (Basic Branch Training) which focuses on their chosen trade.

Naval Officers complete 22 weeks of training in three phases (Junior Officer Common Training (JOCT)) before commencing specialist training.

== Finance ==
===Routine funding===

The RNZN is funded through a "vote" of the [[Parliament of New Zealand]]. The New Zealand Defence Force funds personnel, operating and finance costs. Funding is then allocated to specific "Output Classes", which are aligned to policy objectives.

Funding allocation in each Output Class includes consumables, personnel, depreciation and a 'Capital Charge'. The Capital Charge is a budgetary mechanism to reflect the cost of Crown capital and was set at 7.5% for the 2009/2010 year.<ref>[http://www.treasury.govt.nz/publications/guidance/mgmt/capitalcharge Capital Charge – Treasury Guidance — The Treasury – New Zealand] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110602012846/http://www.treasury.govt.nz/publications/guidance/mgmt/capitalcharge |date=2 June 2011 }}. Treasury.govt.nz (16 December 2009). Retrieved on 2011-11-22.</ref>

===Large projects===
The [[Ministry of Defence (New Zealand)|Ministry of Defence]] is responsible for the acquisition of significant items of military equipment needed to meet New Zealand Defence Force capability requirements. Funding for the Ministry of Defence is appropriated separately.

== Shore establishments ==

=== The Navy Museum ===
{{main|Torpedo Bay Navy Museum}}
The Navy Museum of the Royal New Zealand Navy is located at 64 King Edward Parade, Devonport, Auckland.
<ref>{{cite web|url = http://www.navymuseum.mil.nz/visit-us/getting-there.htm|title = Navy Museum|work = Visit Us|publisher = Royal New Zealand Navy|access-date = 19 January 2012|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20111219034107/http://www.navymuseum.mil.nz/visit-us/getting-there.htm|archive-date = 19 December 2011|url-status = dead|df = dmy-all}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Map: Naval Museum at Torpedo Bay|url=https://maps.google.com/maps?oe=utf-8&rls=org.mozilla:en-GB:official&client=firefox-a&um=1&ie=UTF-8&q=navy+museum+torpedo+bay&fb=1&hq=navy+museum+torpedo+bay&cid=0,0,543075775146202570&ei=ncYXT_vvA-aviQLchIijCA&sa=X&oi=local_result&ct=image&ved=0CBEQ_BI|publisher=Google Maps|access-date = 19 January 2012}}</ref> It contains important collections of naval artefacts and extensive records.

=== Naval Communications Facility ''Irirangi'' ===
[[Naval Communications Station Irirangi|HMNZS ''Irirangi'']] was a Naval Communication Station at [[Waiouru]] from 1943 to 1993.

==Uniforms and insignia==
Uniforms of the RNZN are very similar to those of the British [[Royal Navy]] and other [[Commonwealth of Nations]] navies. However, RNZN personnel wear the nationality marker "NEW ZEALAND" on a curved shoulder flash on the service uniform and embroidered on shoulder slip-ons. Also, the RNZN uses the rank of [[Ensign (rank)|Ensign]] as its lowest commissioned rank and five-pointed stars for Flag Officers.

===Rank structure and insignia===
{{main|New Zealand military ranks}}
{| style="border:1px solid #8888aa; background:#f7f8ff; padding:5px; font-size:95%; margin:0 12px 12px 0;" style="margin:auto; width:100%;"
{{Ranks and Insignia of Non NATO Navies/OF/Blank}}
{{Ranks and Insignia of Non NATO Navies/OF/New Zealand}}
|}
{| style="border:1px solid #8888aa; background:#f7f8ff; padding:5px; font-size:95%; margin:0 12px 12px 0;" style="margin:auto; width:100%;"
{{Ranks and Insignia of Non NATO Navies/OR/Blank}}
{{Ranks and Insignia of Non NATO Navies/OR/New Zealand}}
|}

==See also==
* [[Military history of New Zealand]]
* [[New Zealand Sea Cadet Corps]]
* [[New Zealand military ranks]]
* [[New Zealand Defence College]]
* [[Logistics ships of the Royal New Zealand Navy]]
* [[List of individual weapons of the New Zealand armed forces]]
* [[List of ships of the Royal New Zealand Navy]]

== References ==
{{Reflist}}

==Further reading==
* Defence of New Zealand Study Group, Ramparts on the Sea.
* Howard, Grant. ''The Navy in New Zealand: An Illustrated History,'' AH & AW Reed, 1981.
* Terence Herrick,  Into the blue : a New Zealander in the Royal Navy (1997; memoirs). Herrick was NOIC Auckland, 1954–56 (Dreadnought Project).
* {{cite book |last=McGibbon |first= Ian C. |title= Blue-water Rationale: The naval defence of New Zealand, 1914–1942 |year= 1981 |publisher= Government Printer |location= Wellington |isbn= 0-477-01072-5 }}
* {{cite web |last=Robinson |first= Dr. Colin D. |title=The Creation and Evolution of HQ Joint Forces New Zealand |url=https://wavellroom.com/2022/02/25/hq-joint-forces-new-zealand/ |date=February 25, 2022}}
* Commodore J O'C Ross, The White Ensign in New Zealand
* Rear-Admiral Jack Welch, "New Zealand's navy seeks 'credible minimum'", ''International Defence Review'' 9/1995, Vol. 28, No. 9, pages 75–77.
* Gerry Wright, ''The Story of HMNZS Blackpool.'' 478 pages.

==External links==
{{commons category|Royal New Zealand Navy}}
* {{Official website}}
* [http://www.rnzna.org.nz/ Royal New Zealand Naval Association website]
* [https://nzetc.victoria.ac.nz/tm/scholarly/tei-WH2Navy.html ''The Royal New Zealand Navy'' in World War II, Official History (online), by S D Waters]
* [https://nzetc.victoria.ac.nz/tm/scholarly/tei-WH2Navy-a1.html#n522 The First New Zealand Navy in the Maori Wars (Appendix to WWII History above)]
* [http://www.navy.mil.nz/mtf/lwu/default.htm Now-HMNZS Matataua]
* [https://rnzncomms.org/books/ Books written by Sailors – RNZN Communicators Association] – Books written by Sailors

{{NZ Public Service Departments}}
{{NZ Military}}
{{Military history of New Zealand}}

{{authority control}}

[[Category:Royal New Zealand Navy| ]]
[[Category:1941 establishments in New Zealand]]
[[Category:Organizations established in 1941]]
[[Category:New Zealand Defence Force]]
[[Category:Organisations based in New Zealand with royal patronage]]