Next deployment of troops to leave for Afghanistan

The next rotation of New Zealand Defence Force troops to Afghanistan will leave Christchurch on Saturday.

The 94-strong navy, army and air force contingent will be farewelled by Defence Minister Phil Goff.

Based in Bamyan in central Afghanistan, the personnel will make up the seventh Provincial Reconstruction Team (PRT) to be deployed to the area.

Defence spokesman Lieutenant Commander Andrew Lincoln said the PRT will face a number of challenges including the harsh Afghan winter.

Major General Lou Gardiner, Commander Joint Forces New Zealand, said defence personnel in Afghanistan could be proud of their contribution.

"The professionalism and expertise of our defence personnel has earned great respect for the contribution made towards achieving stability in Afghanistan," Maj Gen Gardiner said.

"Along with the other 18 missions NZDF personnel are deployed to around the world, New Zealand's PRT in Bamyan has received high praise from both within Afghanistan, and from other countries," he said.

- NZPA