A large US warship has arrived in Wellington’s harbour, making the first visit to the city by a US naval vessel since 2021.
The nearly 200-metre long USS Blue Ridge arrived in the city this morning.
The command ship, and flagship of the 7th US Fleet, was full of sensors, as opposed to missiles and shells. It was commissioned in 1970 and is the oldest operational ship in the US Navy.
The nearly 200-metre USS Blue Ridge arrived in the city this morning. (Source: 1News)
During the visit, leadership from the vessel would meet with their Kiwi counterparts to discuss ways of improving operational readiness, advancing future military capabilities, and growing the US and New Zealand’s bilateral relationship overall.
Crew from the shop would spend the day participating in various in-port activities, including band performances, community relations events, ship tours, and tourist sightseeing.
The ship would be off-limits to the public, however.
Vice Admiral Fred Kacher, commander, US 7th Fleet, said the visit spoke to the US and New Zealand’s “deep ties”.
“Our partnership is rooted in our common values and respect, and our visit here represents an important opportunity for us to further strengthen the bond between our nations and our navies.”
The ship’s visit comes months after Chinese warships engaged in live-firing drills in the Tasman Sea.
US defence analyst Derek Grossman told 1News that Blue Ridge’s visit was a “good sign” of the two countries’ security partnership.
“I think it’s symbolic, but I also think it’s indicative of the strengthening partnership with an eye towards countering China in the Indo-Pacific.”
Grossman said he “wouldn’t be surprised” if the visit was partially in response to China’s live fire drills, but said it was more symbolic of an “increasing alignment in the perspectives of Wellington and Washington”.
However, Defence Minister Judith Collins said the USS Blue Ridge visit had no connection with activities in the region by China.
“It’s here on a goodwill visit, it’s great for us – and no, these visits are not planned around Chinese warships,” she said.
“The US and New Zealand have great a relationship. Our troops and our people work together in places like Korea and the Sinai.
“Our relationship with the US has always been very strong – the Marines were here in the Second World War. It’s a very strong relationship and always has been, and I think people will feel really happy to see them in town.”