New Zealand Defence Force
Te Ope Kaatua O Aotearoa

4 April 2007

Back Home from the Solomon Islands

Around 40 New Zealand regular and territorial force soldiers from Christchurch and Otago will be welcomed home by family, friends and representatives from the New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) tonight after a four month deployment to the Solomon Islands.

Commander Joint Forces New Zealand, Rear Admiral Jack Steer, said the contingent had been very successful during the time they were deployed in the Solomon Islands.

“The territorial force personnel deployed on this operation were able to use both their military skills and those from their civilian experiences to assist with a number of additional humanitarian tasks which have further improved conditions for the people of the Solomon Islands. This has been an outstanding deployment which has really showcased the abilities of the territorial force soldiers. ”

“I would also like to extend my sincere appreciation to the families and friends of those returning. Without the ongoing support of families and friends the NZDF would not be able to maintain our operational tempo. They played a crucial part in the success of this deployment, as did the employers who allowed their territorial staff to take time off work for the deployment’s duration.”

The soldiers served as part of the New Zealand Defence Force’s contribution to the Regional Assistance Mission Solomon Islands.

A replacement contingent of 43 regular and territorial force soldiers departed for the Solomon Islands last week to ensure a smooth handover between deployments.

ENDS

The troops are returning to Christchurch International Airport at 9.45pm on Wednesday 4 April 2007. Media wishing to attend should contact Kirsty Clokie, Defence Public Relations, to ensure they are informed of any changes to this time or for further information: 04 496 0292 or 021 745 288

Background - Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands:

- RAMSI is a partnership between the government of the Solomon Islands and contributing pacific nations, including New Zealand and Australia. It aims to ensure security and assists the Solomon Island’s people and government to develop the skills and institutions for successful self governance.

- New Zealand has supported the RAMSI mission since July 2003 at the request of the Solomon Island’s government.

The mission in the Solomon Islands requires strong infantry skills and an ability to get on well with the local people.

The New Zealand Troops regularly liaise with locals, conduct patrols, provide assistance to police and help with external security at Rove Prison.NZ

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