HMNZS Canterbury arrived in Lyttelton for a four-day homeport visit from 21 to 25 February.

Every ship in the RNZN fleet has a homeport; calling into one is a special moment.

While in Lyttelton, HMNZS Canterbury hosted a charity event for Cholmondeley, conducted a Charter Parade in Latimer Square, and provided ship tours for RNZN Reservists, Sea Cadets, and other organisations. The ship was planning to embark a Seasprite helicopter while in port.

“The officers and crew on HMNZS Canterbury are always privileged to get the opportunity to sail visit Lyttelton and Christchurch,” a Royal New Zealand Navy spokesperson said.

The ship will deploy to New Zealand’s sub-Antarctic islands, Auckland and Campbell Islands, to support partner agencies. This mission is called Op Endurance.

The ship will assist government agencies, such as the Department of Conservation and Meteorological Service NZ, in maintaining meteorological monitoring and navigational safety equipment.

“This will improve maritime safety in the Southern Ocean. We will also be supporting the upkeep of historic sites and conservation efforts for endangered species.”

HMNZS CANTERBURY is an Amphibious Support Ship that has been used multiple times for this mission due to its ability to carry up to 366 personnel, four helicopters, and 33 20-foot containers.