NZ Troops depart for tour in Timor Leste

A six month tour of duty in Timor-Leste will began for 148 New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) personnel on Wednesday.

The company from 2/1 RNZIR based in Burnham are the fourth rotation to serve in Timor-Leste since troops were again committed in May 2006. New Zealand has contributed to various United Nations and peacekeeping efforts in Timor-Leste since 1999.

Regular tasks for the Kiwis include carrying out patrols, liaising with locals and providing assistance to United Nations police.

The company deploying on Wednesday will be farewelled by Brigadier Dave Gawn (the NZ Army Land Component Commander), and family and friends.

The New Zealand Defence Force’s commitment to Timor-Leste at present also includes two helicopters and 31 personnel serving with the Combined Joint Task Force, as well as two Military Liaison Officers serving with the United Nations Integrated Mission in Timor-Leste (UNMIT).

The main body will depart in two flights from Christchurch Airport on Wednesday 5 December. Media are invited to attend.