Rebuilding the Capability of the New Zealand Defence Force 4/6

Mark Burton Defence

Questions and Answers on the Defence Real Estate Consolidation
Strategy

How long will it take to close and vacate
Hobsonville Air Base?

    It is anticipated that the last operational units will vacate Hobsonville in
    eighteen months.

When will the property be finally sold?

    Sale is expected within six months of the last operational unit vacating the
    Base.

How will it be sold?

    The property will be sold progressively in stages as parts of the property
    become surplus. It will be sold in accordance with the requirements of the
    Public Works Act, and the Crown Property Disposal Standards and Guidelines.

Who will purchase the property?

    In the first instance, the property will be available for another Public
    Work, such as Housing. If not required, it will then be considered for offer
    back to the former owners. If not accepted, it will then pass through the Maori
    Protection mechanism, and if necessary, will be landbanked. If not required, it
    will then be offered for sale by public tender on the open market.

What assurance is there that the disposal timeframe
will be achieved, and that it won't be tied up in litigation such as at
Papakura?

    The Defence Force will adhere to the letter of the legislation, and will
    work to deliver the intent of the Public Works Act. It will follow closely the
    Crown Property disposal standards and guidelines. This will minimise the risk of
    litigation.

How does the development of Hobsonville fit within the
regional and district plans of the local authorities?

    The property provides an opportunity for development in the area that both
    the regional and local authorities will wish to oversee.

Are any changes planned for Whenuapai Air
Base?

    Not at this stage. Operational squadrons currently located at Whenuapai
    airfield will remain there, along with Air Force support and administration
    functions. A study will be undertaken to consider possible future uses for the
    Base, including the viability of a joint military/civilian airfield venture.

Why has it been decided to retain the Naval Base at
Devonport?

    The 1997 Coopers and Lybrand report suggested that there were no economic
    reason to move to another location. Commercial interests were able to put
    forward proposals but these all involved extra costs to the NZDF.

    There is also no compelling operational reason to move.

    The decision to maintain the status quo is financially sensible and avoids
    disruption of the Navy and its personnel, including families, for no good
    reason.

Why has it been decided to keep open the
Burnham Military Camp near Christchurch?

    Since the C&L report there have been two major issues which impact on
    the way Army conducts and plans its training requirements.

    These are the restrictions imposed by the Resource Management Act, and
    secondly the motorisation of the Army's infantry and reconnaissance elements.
    There has also been concern raised at the prospect of removing an army presence
    in the South Island, given that it has responsibilities to assist in the event
    of civil and natural emergencies.

What use does the army make of Burnham?

    Burnham camp is the home of No3 Land Force Group, comprising some 1500
    personnel, which includes:
    • 2nd/1st Battalion RNZ Infantry Regiment
    • 3rd Signals Squadron
    • 3rd Logistics Battalion
    • 3rd Field Ambulance
    • Army Band
    • 3rd Regional Training Units
    • Services Corrective Establishment
    • Territorial Units

How many houses are owned and maintained by Defence
for serving personnel?

    Approximately 3072 married quarters, located both on military bases and in
    the local community immediately surrounding various bases and camps. The NZDF
    will continue to provide housing assistance to its people, but a study will be
    undertaken to determine the best way to provide this assistance.

How does the Real Estate Consolidation Strategy fit
within the Defence Policy Framework?

    The Defence Policy Framework places an emphasis on the efficient use of all
    resources. These proposals promote better operational use of existing resources,
    and the freeing up of under-utilised capital assets.