Ship commander Bronwyn Heslop. Photo: RNZ / Nate McKinnon
*This story has been updated, after wrongly saying Bronwyn Heslop was the commanding officer of HMNZS Manawanui.
The commanding officer of the HMNZS Canterbury will be returning to duties next month.
The Maritime component commander appointed a New Zealand Defence Force investigating officer to undertake a command investigation into the conduct of Commander Bronwyn Heslop after concerns were raised.
The New Zealand Defence Force said the command investigation has concluded with administrative action taken to address the concerns.
Heslop will return from leave to her duties as commanding officer of HMNZS Canterbury from 13 January until the next scheduled change of command expected mid-2025.
At no time was Heslop removed from command, the New Zealand Defence Force added.
Administrative action refers to a broad spectrum of options used within the New Zealand Defence Force for the management of members of the Armed Forces.
These options range from counselling and guidance, annual performance reporting, management plans to warnings or censures.
It does not include any disciplinary action taken under the military justice system.
The type of administrative action taken in this case will not be detailed, to protect the privacy of the individuals, the New Zealand Defence Force said.
