The two second-hand Lake-class IPVs purchased from the New Zealand government for the Irish Naval Service have arrived in the country. (Irish DoD)

Two second-hand Lake-class inshore patrol vessels (IPVs) purchased from New Zealand to equip the Irish Naval Service (INS) have arrived in Ireland.

The two ships, the former HMNZS Rotoiti and HMNZS Pukaki, arrived in Ringaskiddy, Cork, onboard the Dutch-registered heavy lift ship Happy Dynamic on 14 May, completing a month-long transit from Auckland, New Zealand. The IPVs were then unloaded and towed to Haulbowline Naval Base for delivery to the INS on 16 May.

The IPVs will now undergo a programme of work to fit additional equipment and a period of crew training. According to the Irish Department of Defence (DoD), the two ships are scheduled to enter service in early 2024 and will initially operate from Haulbowline Naval Base.

Ex-HMNZS Rotoiti and ex-HMNZS Pukaki