16 May 2025

Boaties told to stay away from US warship in Wellington harbour

1:13 pm on 16 May 2025
The USS Blue Ridge docked in Wellington.

The USS Blue Ridge docked in Wellington. Photo: United States Navy

Water users are being told to keep clear of a US warship while it's in Wellington harbour.

The USS Blue Ridge arrived on Friday, and the harbourmaster said no vessels are allowed within 200 metres of the ship while it's moving.

They also cannot go within 100 metres of it where it is docked unless given approval by the harbourmaster.

The US Navy said senior staff are scheduled to meet their New Zealand counterparts and local leaders to discuss ways to improve bilateral relations.

The USS Blue Ridge is touring the Pacific having previously visited Australia, New Caledonia and Fiji.

The ship is expected to leave Wellington on Thursday next week.