Tauranga came out in force to support the crew of HMNZS Te Mana at this morning's charter parade.

More than 200 locals turned out to support the sailors who marched from the Tauranga Waterfront, up Wharf St and formed up outside the Council office on Willow Street.

Crew from HMNZS Te Mana at this morning's parade. Photos: Chris Cullinan.

Welcomed by Tauranga Mayor Stuart Crosby and cheered on by the crowd the men and women of Te Mana were on fine display.

The ship returned home yesterday, it has a crew of 22 officers, 33 senior rates and 97 junior rates. Its commanding officer is Commander Simon Griffiths.

SunLive photographer captured some of the pageantry of today's event.

Sub Lieutenant Mark Littleton from Tauranga gives his ‘marching orders' to the Te Mana sailors on parade.

Commander Simon Griffiths, DSD, RNZN – Commanding Officer HMNZS Te Mana.

Commodore D.A. David Gibbs, RNZN – Deputy Chief of Navy.

Mayor Stuart Crosby and Commander Simon Griffiths, DSD, RNZN – Commanding Officer HMNZS Te Mana.