OPVs take next step in construction
Modules of the Navy's two new Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPVs) departed New Zealand on their way to Australia on 12 June 2006.
The hangar, funnel and bridge modules were barged from their construction site in Whangarei to Williamstown, Australia where they will be joined to the other modules to complete the construction.
The two new vessels, to be named Wellington and Otago, will be delivered into Navy service during 2007.
Above: A module from OPV 2 (Wellington) is prepared to be barged.
The OPVs will be versatile vessels capable of multi-agency operations in support of national security tasks, with a secondary task of operating in support of various maritime operations.
Above: OPV modules being towed by barge from Whangerei.
Several Northland engineering companies won sub-contracts from Tenix for various construction aspects of the project. A programme was developed by Tenix to maximise New Zealand industry involvement in the ship building.
As well as modules of the two Offshore Patrol Craft, all four of the Lake-class Inshore Patrol Vessels are being built in Whangarei.