United States Navy destroyer USS Sampson has been given clearance to visit New Zealand next month by Prime Minister John Key.

The USS Sampson, an Arleigh Burke class destroyer and the first US military ship to visit New Zealand in 32 years, will be talking part in the Royal New Zealand Navy's International Naval Review in November.

'Under New Zealand's nuclear free legislation I am required to be satisfied that any foreign military ship entering New Zealand is not nuclear armed,” says John.

'I have granted this approval after careful consideration of the advice provided by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

'New Zealand's legislation also does not allow ships which are nuclear propelled into New Zealand and the advice I received from officials is that the USS Sampson is not nuclear powered.”

He explains the process for considering the visit by the USS Sampson is the same for all ships attending the International Naval Review and has been used for all military ships visiting New Zealand since the legislation was enacted.

'New Zealand looks forward to the USS Sampson's participation in the International Naval Review to mark the Royal New Zealand Navy's 75th anniversary. The visit is a further reflection of the depth of the bilateral relationship with the United States.”

The International Naval Review is being held in Auckland on November 17-22. At least 15 countries will participate in the review to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the Royal New Zealand Navy.

On Tuesday The New Zealand Defence Force released a list of defence and security forces that are sending ships, personnel or aircraft to the International Naval Review and preceding exercises.

The Chief of Navy Rear Admiral John Martin says the RNZN and the NZDF were looking forward to welcoming the ships and personnel from the countries taking part.

The International Naval Review starts on Thursday 17 November, with the entry of the fleet into Waitemata Harbour. Vessels will then berth either at Ports of Auckland or Devonport Naval Base.

'This year the Royal New Zealand Navy is celebrating 75 years of service to our nation and contributing towards the prosperity and security of New Zealand,” says Rear Admiral Martin.

'We celebrate the nation's commitment to its Navy, honour and acknowledge the service of New Zealanders who have served at sea and look forward with confidence and excitement to the next 75 years.

'The Navy is committed to advancing New Zealand's interests and making a difference at home and abroad.”

As well as the entry of the fleet into Waitemata Harbour on 17 November, a '1000-sailor” march down Queen Street is planned for November 18.

Then on November 19 the formal International Naval Review will be held, during which the Governor-General, Her Excellency the Right Honourable Dame Patsy Reddy will review the assembled ships in a centuries-old naval tradition.

'It's a significant exercise to host such an event; one that will showcase the Navy, the NZDF and New Zealand,” says Rear Admiral Martin.

On Sunday November 20, an open day will be held, during which the public will be able to board participating naval vessels.

'The Royal New Zealand Navy appreciates the attendance of our allies, friends and partners at our celebrations,” said Rear Admiral Martin. 'They have come a long way, and we look forward to welcoming them to New Zealand.”

For more information visit the Royal New Zealand Navy's website at: nznavy75.co.nz

SEVENTY-FIVE YEARS OF THE RNZN

On October 1, 1941, His Majesty King George VI approved the designation 'Royal New Zealand Navy”, creating the independent maritime force that is the RNZN today. Since then, many thousands have served in the Navy.

This year is the Navy's opportunity to celebrate its achievements while increasing awareness of the importance of the RNZN in maintaining the security and prosperity of New Zealanders and showcasing the Service as a worthwhile and fulfilling career.

The year-long nationwide programme of commemorative events and activities reflects the Navy's strong connection with New Zealand and is collectively named ‘Operation Neptune' – which highlights the greatest single loss of life sustained by our Navy.

HMS Neptune, a sister ship to HMNZS Achilles of River Plate fame, was being prepared for transfer to the RNZN when she was lost in an enemy minefield in the Mediterranean on December 19, 1941, with the loss of all but one man, including all 150 of the New Zealanders who had already joined the ship.

The year will culminate in December with a memorial service at the National War Memorial in Wellington for those lost in HMS Neptune.

COUNTRIES PARTICIPATING IN THE NAVAL REVIEW:

Most of the New Zealand navy will be in Auckland next month. Photo: Supplied.