New Zealand Defence Force
Te Ope Kaatua O Aotearoa
Media Release
21 December 2007
Statement from Lt Gen Jerry Mateparae, Chief of Defence Force
Today the Minister of Defence asked for an independent review into the design, build, acquisition and sea-worthiness of
HMNZS CANTERBURY.
The NZDF fully endorses this review. Safety of our personnel and equipment are our first priority and this review will
provide greater certainty and confidence around the design and performance of CANTERBURY.
The Navy, and the ship’s Commanding Officer and company, have managed CANTERBURY with professionalism and skill since
its commissioning.
Both the Chief of Navy and I are confident that concerns with the ship can be fixed. The NZDF will fully cooperate in
ensuring this review will answer the questions around the acquisition and introduction into service of CANTERBURY.
ENDS
Statement from Secretary of Defence Mr John McKinnon
Today the Minister of Defence asked for an independent review into the acquisition and introduction into service of
HMNZS CANTERBURY.
The Ministry of Defence fully endorses this review. Safety of Defence personnel and equipment are our first priority and
this review will provide certainty and confidence around the design and performance of CANTERBURY.
The Ministry of Defence will fully cooperate in ensuring this review will answer all questions around the acquisition
and introduction into service of the CANTERBURY.
ENDS