HMNZS Hawea (2007)
The HMNZS Hawea (A09) is a support ship of the Royal New Zealand Navy (RNZN). She is the second RNZN vessel to bear the name Hawea, after the lake of the same name in the South Island of New Zealand. The ship entered service in 2007 and is classified as a replenishment tanker and stores ship. Her primary role is to provide logistical support to the RNZN fleet at sea, including replenishment of fuel, stores, and provisions.
The Hawea is a crucial element of the RNZN's operational capabilities, enabling extended deployments and operations far from New Zealand's shores. Her capabilities allow the navy to maintain operational effectiveness for longer periods without needing to return to port frequently. While specific details on her armament and precise specifications are often considered sensitive information, it is known that she is equipped for self-defense and possesses significant cargo capacity to support diverse mission requirements. The vessel’s design incorporates features to minimize its environmental impact.
Further details regarding the ship's operational history, technical specifications, and crew complement are limited in publicly available sources. More information might be available through official RNZN channels or specialized naval publications.