Western Bay families have a unique chance tomorrow to get on-board the HMNZS Hawea, which is berthed in Tauranga, with the Anzac weekend open day celebrating the NZ Navy's 75th anniversary.

HMNZS Hawea is one of the Navy's three Inshore Patrol Vessels, and will be open to the public tomorrow from 10am-2pm, at Port of Tauranga's Number 1 Berth.

Ordinary communication warfare specialist Jacob Holland on watch.

The ship's commanding officer Lieutenant Dave Luhrs says IPVs are designed for maritime surveillance and patrol missions around NZ's 15,000km coast and to the 200 nautical mile limit of NZ's Exclusive Economic Zone.

'The ship is coming to Tauranga and this is a rare opportunity for you to have a good look over one of our ships,” says Dave.

With overall command of the ship, he's trained in navigation, naval warfare and operations planning and management.

'A modern ship like the Hawea contains the latest technology such as high-powered diesel engines and electronic equipment such as navigation and communication systems.

'The ship's company is highly trained in the operation and maintenance of these systems, with many personnel having specialist skills in technical or electronic trades developed through the Navy's training systems.

'As well as having a specialist skill – such as marine technician, combat specialist, chef or medic – each member of the ship is part of the larger unit and might drive the ship's boats, operate the guns or be a member of the boarding team.”

Dave says using their two Rigid Hull Inflatable Boats, the Hawea is highly manoeuvrable and capable of speeds up to 25 knots or 46km per hour.

The Hawea is 55 metres long, weighs 340 tonnes and has has 20 naval personnel, four Government agency officers and capacity to host 12 additional personnel on-board.

'For safety, please wear closed toe footwear when embarking onto the ship – and please also bring drinking water as the ship will only be able to supply emergency water and sunscreen because there is little shade on-board.”

The HMNZS Hawea open day is 10am-2pm on April 23 at Number 1 Berth, Port of Tauranga, Mirrielees Rd.

Admission is free for all ages. Port security and RNZN personnel will assist with access to the ship via the working wharf.