Kiwi troops depart for tour in Afghanistan

On Wednesday 17 October, a contingent of 77 New Zealand Defence Force personnel will depart from Ohakea Air Force Base to begin a six month deployment to Afghanistan.

Seventy-four of the personnel will serve with the New Zealand Provincial Reconstruction Team in the Bamyan Province of Afghanistan. The remaining personnel will serve as trainers for the Afghan National Army or as staff officers at the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) Headquarters in Kabul.

The departure ceremony will be attended by the Chief of Defence Force Lieutenant General Jerry Mateparae and Chief of Army Major General Lou Gardiner along with family and friends of the departing personnel.

When: 7.20am Wednesday 17 October 2007

Where: Ohakea Air Force Base

What: Departure of 77 NZDF personnel for a six month deployment in Afghanistan.

Media wishing to attend the departure must register with Nicole Munro-Johnson, (04) 529 6033 or 021 569 148, before 4pm on Tuesday 16 October to ensure access is available. Photo identification will be required on the day.