Air Marshal Kevin Short is welcomed as the new chief of the Defence Force with a pōwhiri. Photo: Crown Copyright / NZDF
The Defence Force has a new chief after a change of command ceremony at Pukeahu National War Memorial Park in Wellington today full of pomp and pageantry.
Read more about the changeover:
The outgoing Chief of Defence Force, Lieutenant-General Tim Keating, was farewelled with a guard of honour before laying a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Warrior.
Lieutenant General Tim Keating reveiws his last parade as Defence Force chief. Photo: Crown Copyright / NZDF
Dame Sian Elias, in her capacity as the Administrator of the Government, presided over the presentation of the warrant of appointment to the new chief, Air Marshal Kevin Short.
Air Marshal Kevin Short Photo: NZDF
Following a pōwhiri and welcome parade, Air Marshal Kevin Short then took part in the daily Last Post ceremony.
Dignitaries present included the Minister of Defence and Veterans Ron Mark, the Secretary of Defence Helene Quilter, and Vice Admiral David Johnston representing the Australian Defence Force.