There was a change of command on HMNZS Te Mana today when Commander Lisa Hunn took control of the Navy frigate - the first female commanding officer of a frigate in the NZ Navy.
Lisa Hunn made history, and then had a cup of tea.
The Royal New Zealand Navy commander today became the first female commanding officer of an RNZN frigate, when she was given charge of HMNZS Te Mana.
At a ceremony at Devonport Naval Base in Auckland this afternoon the 46-year-old formally took command of the 178-berth ship and its company of 145.
Outgoing commander Simon Griffiths handed over the ceremonial waka paddle signalling control of the 3600-tonne warship, Hunn was ceremonially welcomed aboard and then everyone in the ship's company had a cup of tea.
For Hunn, who joined the Navy in 1990 aged 17, the moment was a culmination of a career-long dream.
"I was trying not to look at anyone. It was quite emotional."
Commander Lisa Hunn takes command of Navy frigate HMNZS Te Mana. Picture / Dean Purcell
She described her role as that of a "super parent" of the ship.
"It's really about guiding, mentoring and coaching the team. it's more about not doing. You provide the intellect and guidance."
Hunn has been the principal warfare officer on HMNZS Te Kaha, then operations officer, and has been executive officer of HMNZS Te Mana and HMNZS Philomel.
NMNZS Te Mana is her second command. She was the last officer in command of HMNZS Takapu before it was decommissioned.
RNZN was formed in 1941 and the Women's Royal Naval Service established the following year. It ran almost continuously until 1977 when the Government, under the Human Rights Act, deemed a separate women's Navy no longer appropriate.
Nine years later women were first allowed to go to sea.
Royal New Zealand Navy sailors during the change of command ceremony for HMNZS Te Mana. Picture / Dean Purcell
Because of the qualifications and experience needed to command a frigate, it took time before any women in the Navy could become qualified enough for the role, Hunn said.
But there was nothing stopping anyone from doing so now, she said.
"It depends on the individual and the choices you make, because the organisation will try and provide you with the opportunities and training to help you realise your potential."
The Navy was made up of just 10 per cent women when she joined, but that had risen to 22 per cent now, with a focus on increased diversity.
It took time to move through the pathways to ship commands but, with her appointment, a woman had now been at the helm of every type of ship in the fleet.
"Now it can become normality. This is what we do."
Commander Lisa Hunn (right) takes command of Royal New Zealand Navy frigate HMNZS Te Mana from outgoing commander Simon Griffiths. Picture / Dean Purcell
