Ambassade de France en Nouvelle-Zélande

Media Release

New Zealand’s neighbours in the South Pacific pay a visit to Auckland

Wednesday 8 February 2012

La Moqueuse, a French patrol boat based in Noumea, New Caledonia, will stop over in Auckland from 17 to 21 February where it will be moored at Princes Wharf, between the Viaduct basin and the old Ferry Building.

Lieutenant François-Xavier Madec, who has been the vessel’s commanding officer since 28 July 2011, will welcome visitors aboard the French Navy ship on Saturday 18 and Sunday 19 February from 10.00 am to 12.00 pm, and from 2.00 pm to 5.00pm. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain a rare insight into life on board a naval frigate!

During its time in the City of Sails, La Moqueuse’s officers and crew will also host dignitaries and Embassy contacts invited to attend an official lunch and cocktail party on the deck of the ship.

La Moqueuse’s main function is to carry out maritime surveillance of New Caledonia’s and Wallis and Futuna’s Exclusive Economic Zones. However, its duties are not limited to this responsibility. The patrol boat also takes part in cooperation missions with multi-national forces, including New Zealand, to maintain a secure and peaceful environment in the South Pacific. It also participates in search and rescue missions, assists with inter-island transportation, and plays a large role in the fight against illegal fishing, drug smuggling, and pollution in the South Pacific region.

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