The New Zealand Government has recently issued its Defence White Paper 2010, and the following paragraphs are relevant to their military helicopter operations:-

5.31 Over the next two years, the programme to bring the new helicopter fleet into service will continue. These new helicopters will represent a step-change in the support given to land forces. The NH90 will be the primary tactical troop transport aircraft, with the A109 conducting lighter roles. It is planned that both will be fitted with self-protection to enable them to operate in more hostile environments.

5.32 To maximise the utility of the relatively inexpensive A109s, a further three will be acquired to provide an operationally deployable output plus training.

5.48 Naval helicopters will continue to provide extended reach, surveillance, and airdelivered weapon capabilities (air-to-surface missile and anti-submarine torpedo) for the frigates. A review will determine whether it is more cost-effective to upgrade or replace the existing Seasprite helicopters when they are due for an upgrade in the middle of this decade.

5.58 Applying the lessons of recent operational experience, we will improve the combat effectiveness, protection, and sustainability of land forces, including key supporting capabilities. This should allow the NZDF to deploy troops in greater number, and for longer, than it can at present. This applies to both the regular Army and the Special Forces — whose effectiveness will be further enhanced by improving the support they receive from the regular Army. The mobility of the land forces will be enhanced by the introduction and expansion of the support helicopter fleet.