New guardians of our waters put on show of strength

Photo / Paul Estcourt

Four ships attracted attention as they left the Devonport naval base in formation yesterday.

The inshore patrol vessels HMNZS Rotoiti, Taupo, Pukaki and Hawea are the latest additions to the fleet. Yesterday's sailing was the first time that the four ships have been at sea together.

Each one left for a different purpose, including sea training.

The ships will be used with three other inshore patrol vessels toguard New Zealand waters -in most cases by assisting customsand the Ministry of Fisheries by inspecting visiting ships to ensurethat they are not carrying drugsand that they are complying with New Zealand laws.

The ships were accompanied yesterday by the soon-to-be-decommissioned inshore patrol craft HMNZS Kahu.