HMNZS Manawanui Departs For Solomons Service

For Immediate Release 5 October 2001

HMNZS Manawanui Departs For Service
In The Solomon Islands

HMNZS Manawanui and a crew of 28, under the command of Lieutenant Commander Lance Cook, RNZN, depart Devonport Naval Base today for service with the International Peace Monitoring Team (IPMT) in the Solomon Islands.

HMNZS Manawanui is the third New Zealand Naval vessel to take part in the IPMT Mission. The Commanding Officer and Ships Company, will take over responsibility for supporting the IPMT mission for a period of no less than 30 days from the Australian Navy Frigate HMAS Canberra, before returning to New Zealand.

Major General Martyn Dunne, CNZM, Commander Joint Forces New Zealand says “HMNZS Manawanui’s deployment is a continuation of New Zealand’s commitment to working towards a peaceful resolution to the difficulties in the Solomon Islands. The ship provides security and reassurance to all involved in achieving the outcomes of the Townsville Peace Agreement”.

Other New Zealand ships to take part in the IPMT mission have been HMNZS Te Mana and HMNZS Te Kaha. HMNZS Te Mana was involved in the evacuation of Foreign Nationals from the island in July last year, and has recently completed another tour to the Solomon’s in April this year. HMNZS Te Kaha was involved in hosting peace-talks in August last year.

HMNZS Manawanui will also be transporting an Aluminium support craft supplied by Stabicraft Marine in Invcercargill, for use by the IPMT.

ENDS

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