Lurching at sea

The review also raises concerns about the transfer-at-sea capability, which involves lowering the rear ramp to load landing craft which are lowered by crane from the top deck.

The system had "yet to be demonstrated to be safe" and queries include the loadings that could be experienced on the rear door.

"Operational procedure should be critically re-examined as the consequences of inadvertently flooding the cargo deck are potentially disastrous."

Good to see we have value for money in the replacement HMNZS Lemon II.

Our overall view is that the functionality required will be achieved and that following remedial work the Canterbury will be able to discharge all her operational roles.

The ship will exhibit poor seakeeping qualities for ocean patrolling in higher sea states but over time the Navy should be able to develop practices and procedures to accommodate the seakeeping performance.

Some of the deliverables required under the contract may never be delivered.

A lurching ro-ro wreck replaces HMNZS Lemon. Or as was referred to as more commonly round the dockyard as HMNZS Chuck Upham. Looks like cast iron stomachs will too be required on this ship. Another poor seakeeping vessel unfit for duties in the South Pacific and surrounds.

Another contract 'managed' on the stingiest of Liarbour funding, with not all deliverables provided and the Forces having yet again to make do.

Defence Force members often rightly remember, "the weapons systems and platforms were provided by the lowest bidder".