HMAS Canberra departed Wellington, New Zealand, after a successful port visit celebrating the significance and strength of ties between capitals and navies.

Canberra was in port for several days, working alongside its NZ counterparts across multiple platforms.

The sister city relationship that Canberra and Wellington enjoy was celebrated during multiple events, including a civic reception and the grant of Freedom of the City of Wellington.

The ship’s company of Canberra, led by boatswain’s mate Seaman Joseph Youkhana, will long remember the honour of marching through the streets of Wellington with “swords drawn, drums beating, bands playing and colours flying”.

The deployment highlighted the strength of the alliance and enduring bond between Australia and New Zealand, mutual commitment to support each other’s security, and the strong history of shared values, culture and traditions.

This connection between the two countries was reinforced when volunteers from Canberra assisted at numerous community events, including assisting at the soup kitchen, Wellington Zoo, Botanical Gardens and Ghost Diving NZ.

On departing Wellington, Commanding Officer Canberra Captain David McPherson congratulated the ship’s company.

“I hope that you enjoyed Wellington, it is a great city, I’m sure that you will have made some new friendships, some of which will last a lifetime,” Captain McPherson said.

“Congratulations, be proud of yourselves, it’s a big week ahead as we cross the Tasman, back to Australia, well done.”