New Zealand navy's multi-role ship Canterbury left the naval base in Devonport, Auckland, on Monday for the Pacific for a joint exercise also involving the United States, Australia and France.
It was New Zealand's first real joint exercise with the United States since 1984, Xinhua reported.
A total of 150 personnel, made up of medical experts, engineers and builders are on board the ship and will offer assistance in Tonga and Vanuatu.
Defense Minister Wayne Mapp has also revealed New Zealand has been invited to rejoin Rimpac naval exercises next year. Rimpac is full-scale maritime exercise conducted with the United States and allied navies around the Pacific Rim.
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