Visit the Base
Within the Royal New Zealand Navy there are many land-based facilities and services required to support ships and personnel when they are deployed and to ensure that our Navy develops in a positive and proactive way. Shore based support is predominantly based at the Devonport Naval Base, Auckland, with a long and varied list of services and facilities, including facilities for training, sports, and cultural activities, as well as engineering and flight support, the Band and the Museum.
Overlooking Auckland Harbour, HMNZS PHILOMEL is the home of Naval Support Services. This incorporates the Navy Museum at Torpedo Bay, Devonport, which is open to the public, and the Navy Band, who regularly perform throughout New Zealand. Support Services are also responsible for the logistics and organisation of Naval personnel, and for any visits to the base by foreign ships. The Navy Fleet gymnasium is well equipped and full of eager instructors ready to facilitate healthy living and active participation in sport and recreation by all.
The Naval Community Organisation (NCO) is part of HMNZS PHILOMEL, providing friendly support for Naval personnel and their families. NCO offers social work and child-care services, as well as facilities such as the library, Navy motels, Amenities hire centre and a Community House.
Te Taua Moana Marae is the cultural home to all Naval personnel, regardless of iwi or upbringing. The Chaplains provide spiritual support for all sailors, and their families, at home and at sea.
A registered Government training establishment, the Leadership Development Group coordinates training within the Naval Base - from New Entry or Officer Training to the Damage Control and Command schools that everyone must attend at stages of their career. There are also schools for each Naval specialisation, from marine engineering to Officer of the Watch, from hydrography to communications, and many more besides.
Additional support services include the Fleet Engineering Centre, made up of Marine and Weapon Engineers who ensure that deployed ships are supported with the right equipment at the right time, as well as developing and investigating future capabilities for the RNZN.
Naval Support Flight, based at the RNZAF Base Auckland, provides helicopter support for deployed ships, using a combination of Air Force and Navy people.
The Dry Dock is an asset that is used by both Navy and commercial shipping, including the Interislander ferries.
Naval Health Services ensure we all remain fit and healthy for our work, and provide expertise externally, particularly in hyperbaric medicine.