a frigate is generally regarded as the smallest vessel all weather all ocean capable. The Navy, like all of our very limited Armed Forces, are there to play our part internationally, and provide resources for Natural disasters.
The ChCH earthquake and Cyclone Gabriel are classic examples - you want to discuss this with the people of Napier and East cape about what the defense forces did for them ? The Government has virtually no other resources to use.
Our Defense forces are bleeding experienced people as they are so under resourced. The resource we have is supposed to complement tho