Local Teen Sets Sail on Royal New Zealand Navy Career

A young Whakatāne woman has graduated from Royal New Zealand Navy basic training, taking the first step towards a career operating some of the military’s most advanced combat systems.

Ordinary Combat System Specialist Danielle Moke-Kingi, 18, graduated on Saturday at Devonport Naval Base in Auckland as part of Basic Common Training intake 26/1.

She was among 84 recruits, 23 women and 61 men, who completed the 16-week course.

Moke-Kingi said joining the Navy was encouraged by an instructor from Trident High School’s Military Service Academy, where she discovered she enjoyed a military-style environment.

It was a challenge she wanted to take on.

“I wanted to make my family and friends proud and show them that I can do this and there are a lot of options outside of your hometown,” she said.

As a Combat System Specialist, Moke-Kingi will train to operate military radar and sonar systems used to identify ships, aircraft and submarines near a warship.

The role can also involve operating remote-controlled weapon systems used to defend a vessel.

She said adapting to life during basic training, including living in barracks and sharing accommodation with 12 other women, was one of the biggest challenges.

“Learning to live with others in your personal space was always going to be hard at first. But as training went on, it became natural. You just learn to live and work well with each other, and you start to form bonds and get closer with your peers,” she said.

Her five years of playing netball at school helped prepare her for the teamwork required in training.

Danielle Moke-Kingi was among 84 recruits, who completed the 16-week course. IMAGE // NZDF

One of the highlights of the course was Range Week, held in the latter stages of training.

During the week, recruits competed in the Efficiency Cup, a competition between the two training divisions, Achilles and Leander, that tested teamwork, resilience, fitness, and determination.

"Completing what was one of our hardest weeks of the course was one of my highlights, because it showed how much we had all grown together.

“To make it even more special, it was our division that won the Efficiency Cup. There were some tears shared between me and some of my close ‘oppos’ (shipmates) when we saw our red flag flying. It was one of my favourite moments.”

Moke-Kingi said the experience had changed her outlook and habits.

“You learn how actions have consequences, and you become good at paying attention, even to the little things.”

She encouraged others considering a military career to embrace the experience and remain focused.

“There are things that you wonder: why are we doing this, what is it teaching? Eventually, you realise the why and how it makes sense. Just be switched on and take it on the chin with a smile and an ‘I get to be here’ mindset. And give 100 percent every day.”