MY TRAVEL INFO: THE INTERNATIONAL ROYAL FLEET REVIEW, AUCKLAND, N.Z

CREW OF KD LEKIR AND KD MAHAWANGSA AT 5OTH IRFR RNZN

The International Royal Fleet Review held on October 5, 1991, was the centerpiece of the Royal New Zealand Navy’s (RNZN) 50th Anniversary celebrations.

Key Highlights of the Event:

• The Reviewing Official: The fleet was reviewed by Dame Catherine Tizard, the Governor-General of New Zealand, acting as the representative for Queen Elizabeth II.
• The "Welcome to Devonport" Sign: Devonport is the home of the Philomel Naval Base (the RNZN's primary base). During the celebrations, the town was the main hub for visiting sailors and public displays.
• International Participation: To honor the 50-year milestone, approximately 20 foreign nations sent warships and representatives. This included massive vessels from the Australia, the United Kingdom, Malaysia, Singapore and many others, filling the Waitematā Harbour.
• Festivities: Beyond the formal naval review, the event featured a tall ships parade, aerial flypasts by the RNZAF, a combined naval march through the streets of Auckland, and "open days" where the public could board the visiting warships.

THE CREW OF KD LEKIR & KD MAHAWANGSA AT AUCKLAND (1991)

Historical Context

Although New Zealand had a "Navy" under the British Royal Navy for decades, the Royal New Zealand Navy was formally established as a distinct and independent branch on October 1, 1941. The 1991 event was a major moment of national pride, asserting New Zealand's maritime identity on the world stage.

Hj Zulheimy Maamor

Ex Crew KD Lekir (1989-1992)

29/12/2025: 12.06 a.m