HMNZS Aotearoa arrives at RIMPAC 2024
02 July 2024
Latest
Stories
Navy reservists help regenerate Irish patrol ship
27 June 2024
Partnering
Second World War-era bombs in Vanuatu made safe by Navy divers
26 June 2024
Media Release
Tech, science and weaponry on board Navy frigate
26 June 2024
People
Wellington man keeps RNZN frigate on course
25 June 2024
Media Release
Southland marine engineer hones skills in South Atlantic Ocean with the Royal Navy
19 June 2024
Media Release
Five-month deployment for Royal New Zealand Navy vessel includes military exercises, operations and engagements
19 June 2024
HMNZS Taupo supports MPI in South Island fishery compliance
18 June 2024
Media Release
Waiouru soldier is district’s top citizen
17 June 2024
In the community
Customs and Navy stop transnational cocaine smuggling attempt
11 June 2024
Media Release
Exercising with the Five Powers
07 June 2024
Ops & exercises
Southern transit promotes good officers
31 May 2024
Life in service
Celebrating Samoa Language Week
27 May 2024
People
Mine blockade no match for littoral warfare teams
17 May 2024
Ops & exercises
Hawke’s Bay Navy hydrographer dives into new Navy boarding team role
15 May 2024
Media Release
Mother's Day 2024
12 May 2024
People
Royal New Zealand Navy team supports Fiji to counter illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing
07 May 2024
Media Release
Naval engineers take on the Aussie Anzac experience
07 May 2024
People
First of Class: When bad weather is a good thing
01 May 2024
Capability
Following family footsteps into a Defence Career through School to Seas camp
26 April 2024
Media Release
Timaru student eyes up Defence Force career after taste of Navy life
26 April 2024
Media Release
Defence Force ceremony wows Anzac League fans
26 April 2024
In the community
NZDF & ADF combine to overcome Gallipoli commemoration hurdles
26 April 2024
Media Release
Anzac Day marked around the world by New Zealand Defence Force personnel
25 April 2024
Media Release
NZDF Gallipoli contingent ‘in good position’ for Anzac Day
25 April 2024
Changes to ceremonial duties in Gallipoli for NZDF
24 April 2024
Media Release
Anzac Day Flypasts 2024
23 April 2024
Capability
Navy Bandsman explores Gallipoli history through musical predecessor
23 April 2024
Media Release
NZDF teams up with Warriors Anzac Day League fixture
23 April 2024
Media Release
Anzac Day 2024
22 April 2024
Our Heritage
We are Te Taua Moana - Warriors of the Sea, professionally trained and committed to doing what is right for our country and for those who ask for our help.
As an island nation with no immediate neighbours, maritime security is vital for New Zealand. Around 90% of our imports and exports are transported by sea so ensuring our trade routes are secure is critical for our economy. Our Exclusive Economic Zone is one of the largest in the world, and at 30,000,000 square kilometres our search and rescue area of responsibility is 7% of the earth’s surface. We protect our own natural ocean resources along with those of our Pacific Island neighbours and play our part in maintaining and preserving order in our region. We are one of the first responders to natural disasters and crises, spearheading the humanitarian response by carrying people, equipment, supplies and expertise to where they are needed most.
Our maritime force is made up of highly trained professionals.
We come from all walks of life and share a strong sense of what it means to be Kiwi - our culture is based on our values Tū Kaha (courage), Tū Tika (commitment), Tū Tira (comradeship) and Tū Maia (integrity). Together, we are Force for New Zealand and are proud to serve Aotearoa and its diverse communities.
Our fleet comprises nine modern and versatile ships and over 2,500 uniformed personnel who undertake a full range of maritime tasks from a combat capability to conducting humanitarian aid and disaster relief missions, fishery and border patrols through to support for government agencies.
Meet our leaders
Considering a career in the navy?
A career in the Defence Force is unlike anything out there. You'll be working as part of a tight-knit team, protecting your family, friends, the environment and your country from harm and representing the New Zealand way of life where you go. It's an incredibly rewarding job that gives you a real sense of purpose.
Find out moreThrough their eyes
Learning the weapons trade
15 April 2024
People
Top skills brought back to Navy
03 April 2024
People
The Antarctic experience
26 March 2024
People
Anchored in strength
08 March 2024
People
Navy sailor finds her problem-solving niche with NZ Navy
08 March 2024
Media Release
Kiwi charts the course of Australia's largest Navy ship
06 March 2024
People
Opening up when it's time to come home
22 February 2024