Kiwis depart for six month deployment to Timor-Leste

Media are invited to attend the farewell on Saturday 12 May of the next rotation of NZ Defence Force personnel to depart for a six month deployment to Timor-Leste.

The contingent, made up of personnel from 2nd 1st Battalion Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment (2/1 RNZIR) and supporting units, will support the Australian-led International Stabilisation Force (ISF) in Timor-Leste.

The improved security situation in Timor-Leste has allowed the International Stabilisation Force to evolve from a security and stabilisation role to supporting the capacity building of the Falintil-Forças de Defesa de Timor-Leste (F-FDTL, the Timor-Leste Defence Force).

77 personnel will be farewelled at Burnham Military Camp on Tuesday by Commander Joint Forces New Zealand, Major General Dave Gawn, and family and friends.

When: 07.30am, Saturday 12 May 2012. The departure time may change - you must register your attendance to be informed of any changes.

Where: Burnham Military Camp. Photo ID will be required.

Media wishing to attend the departure need to register with Zen Gregor, zen.gregor@nzdf.mil.nz or 021 224 3367 by 5pm Friday 11 May.