USS Blue Ridge visits New Zealand, docks at Wellington harbour with an eye on China

The USS Blue Ridge, a US warship, arrived in Wellington Harbour on Friday for a goodwill visit, marking the first visit by a US naval vessel to the city since 2021. The ship's arrival prompted the harbormaster to establish exclusion zones, while US Navy personnel are scheduled to meet with New Zealand counterparts and local leaders to discuss bilateral relations.

The visit occurs amidst ongoing discussions about security partnerships in the Indo-Pacific region, though officials state it is unrelated to Chinese activities.

The nearly 200-meter long USS Blue Ridge is the flagship of the US 7th Fleet. Commissioned in 1970, the amphibious command ships is the oldest operational vessel in the US Navy.


While the ship is docked, no vessels are allowed within 200 metres of the ship while it's moving. Vessels also cannot go within 100 metres of it where it is docked unless given approval by the harbourmaster.

During the visit, US Navy senior staff are scheduled to meet their New Zealand counterparts and local leaders. They will discuss ways to improve bilateral relations.

Crew from the ship will participate in various in-port activities. These include band performances, community relations events, ship tours, and tourist sightseeing. The ship is off-limits to the public.

The USS Blue Ridge is touring the Pacific. It has previously visited Australia, New Caledonia and Fiji. The ship is expected to leave Wellington on Thursday next week.

Vice Admiral Fred Kacher, commander, US 7th Fleet, commented on the visit.

“Our partnership is rooted in our common values and respect, and our visit here represents an important opportunity for us to further strengthen the bond between our nations and our navies.”

Countering China in Indo-Pacific

The visit is also being seen a s countering China's growing influence in the region. US defence analyst Derek Grossman shared his perspective. "I think it's symbolic, but I also think it's indicative of the strengthening partnership with an eye towards countering China in the Indo-Pacific."

"I wouldn't be surprised if the visit was partially in response to China's live fire drills, but said it was more symbolic of an "increasing alignment in the perspectives of Wellington and Washington".

New Zealand Defence Minister Judith Collins addressed the timing of the visit. "It’s here on a goodwill visit, it’s great for us – and no, these visits are not planned around Chinese warships."

Collins elaborated on the relationship between the US and New Zealand.

"The US and New Zealand have great a relationship. Our troops and our people work together in places like Korea and the Sinai. "Our relationship with the US has always been very strong – the Marines were here in the Second World War. It’s a very strong relationship and always has been, and I think people will feel really happy to see them in town."

The visit occurs months after Chinese warships engaged in live-firing drills in the Tasman Sea.