The New Zealand Defence Industry Association, bracing for protests at its annual forum in Auckland this week, says it is a "misunderstood" sector that generates $60 million for the economy by providing support services to the NZ Defence Force. Photo: ODT files"The vast majority of the 170 defence supply organisations represented at the NZDIA Forum support NZDF with enabling services including maintenance, repair and overhaul, logistics, professional advisory services, ICT and engineering," NZDIA chair Bernie Driver said . At the 2015 forum in Wellington, speakers were almost drowned out by protestors opposed to the defence industry and delegates had to be escorted into the event by police. "Look, the government determines that New Zealand chooses to have an armed force and most New Zealanders would be incredibly proud of NZ Defence," he said. Much of its work was civil, such as rescue and support work after this week's Kaikoura earthquake, "but even when they are in harm's way we want them to be the best equipped they can."

Source: Otago Daily Times November 15, 2016 03:23 UTC