Kiwi troops deploying to Timor-Leste and Solomon Islands

18 July 2007

On 22 July 2007 two contingents of New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) personnel will depart from the RNZAF Air Movements Terminal in Ohakea bound for missions in Timor-Leste and the Solomon Islands.

44 NZDF personnel, drawn largely from the Territorial Force, will take over duties in the Solomon Islands while a further 32 air crew and support staff will replace the personnel currently operating the Defence Helicopters deployed to Timor Leste.
 
A small ceremony attended by Chief of Defence Force Lieutenant General Jerry Mateparae, Labour MP Russell Fairbrother and families and friends of the deploying personnel will be held prior to the departure.  Media will have the opportunity to interview deploying troops during the farewell.  

When: 22 July 2007, 7.15 a.m.
Where: RNZAF Air Movements Terminal, Ohakea
What: Deployment of 44 NZDF personnel to the Solomon Islands and 32 NZDF personnel to Timor-Leste.

Media wishing to attend the departure are asked to register their interest with Flight Sergeant Paul Stein on (021) 378 001, before 4pm on Friday 20 July.

ENDS

For further information please contact Captain Rachel Riley, Defence Public Relations, on (04) 529 6031 or 021 806 926.

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