Media Release
Monday, 11 October 2010
Thousands Attend Navy Open Day

The Devonport Naval Base opened its gates to the public for the first time in five years on Saturday and with seven ships open, the public came to visit in their thousands.

The day was full of entertainment covering tours of the ships, kapahaka and Navy Band performances, a Seasprite helicopter static display and fire fighting demonstrations.

Commanding Officer of HMNZS PHILOMEL, Captain Fred Keating said, “It was a day designed to appeal to people of all ages. I was extremely pleased with the turnout and the positive comments from the public showing their support for our servicemen and women and the work they do.”

The Devonport Naval Base wasn’t the only part of the Navy on show. The Torpedo Bay Navy Museum was open to the public for the first time and over 2600 people took the opportunity to view the fantastic exhibitions and get a coffee at the café on site.

It wasn’t only the Navy and public that got behind the open day as many local Devonport businesses entered a competition to “dress up” their shop fronts in a navy or nautical theme.

“It was wonderful to see the support of the Navy shown by the Devonport Community” said Captain Keating “It was hard to pick a winner with so many well thought out displays.”

The winner of the competition was Newton Andrews, 83 Victoria Street, Devonport, dealer of antique prints, photography, maps and paintings, with a wonderful display that captured maritime history.

“It has been five years between Navy Open days, which is too long” commented Captain Keating.

“We will look at other opportunities, around the country, for the public of New Zealand to get to know their Navy better”

ENDS

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