HMNZS CANTERBURY returned to Devonport Naval Base in glorious Auckland sunshine on 18 September after almost two months at sea.
The versatile amphibious sealift ship had been away since 22 July, when she sailed for the Solomon Islands for Operation PACIFIC PARTNERSHIP, a multi-nation humanitarian aid mission.
At the conclusion of Op PP13, CANTERBURY deployed to Cairns to undertake First of Class Flight Trials for the RNZAF’s new NH90 helicopters. The trials were done using a similar RAAF MRH90 helicopter.
The trials involved testing the helicopter and the Ship’s Company in a wide range of wind and sea state to develop an authorised template for flying onboard.
After a short visit to Brisbane, CANTERBURY sailed for Wellington where she embarked a number of civilian and Navy sea-riders, including all 106 new recruits of Basic Common Training (BCT) 13/03 who had attested only the week before—truly an exciting start to their naval careers.
The BCTs lined up under the Bridge as the ship entered the inner Auckland harbour and came alongside at the base.
CANTERBURY will remain in Auckland until late October when she departs with the Offshore Patrol Vessel HMNZS WELLINGTON for the tri-service Operation SOUTHERN KATIPO.
[mappress] Press Release, September 20, 2013; Image: RNZN