24350 (2026). Hon Damien O'Connor to the Minister of Defence

Written Question

Published date: 16 Jun 2026

Metadata

Document type:	Written Question
Parliament number:	54
Question number:	24350 (2026)
Question asked:	01 Jun 2026
Member asking:	Hon Damien O'Connor
Portfolio:	Minister of Defence
Minister replying:	Hon Chris Penk
Answer received:	09 Jun 2026
Status:	Question Answered
Reply type:	Reply
Document ID:	WQ_24350_2026
Document guid:	89a78518-4098-41e3-bcd5-e0563907c98b

24350 (2026). Hon Damien O'Connor to the Minister of Defence: What is the total cost, scope and timeline of Phase 2A of the Frigate Life Extension Programme funded in Budget 2026 under the Defence Capability Plan – Frigate Life Extension initiative (the figures for which were withheld for commercial sensitivity), and to what date is the life of each ANZAC-class frigate expected to be extended, if any?

Hon Chris Penk: The Frigate Life Extension Programme (also known as the Frigate Sustainment Programme) is replacing selected systems on New Zealand’s two Anzac-class frigates, HMNZS Te Kaha and Te Mana, to ensure they remain operational and combat capable while the Maritime Fleet Renewal Programme develops options for their replacement. Further details on Phase 2A of this project are subject to decisions by Cabinet and Ministers, and future commercial negotiations, so cannot be released at this time, but will be released in due course.