HQ JFNZ was established on 1 July 2001 to replace the NZDF's three service-specific operational headquarters (Air Command, Land Command, and the Maritime Commander New Zealand).[2] It has responsibility for commanding NZDF units deployed on operations, as well as those undertaking major training operations.[1] The COMJFNZ reports directly to the Chief of Defence Force, and HQ JFNZ is staffed by members of all three armed services.[3][4] The heads of the Royal New Zealand Navy, New Zealand Army and Royal New Zealand Air Force are responsible for training and sustaining combat forces, which are then assigned to the COMJFNZ during exercises and deployments.[1]
As of 2005, HQ JFNZ comprised the following sub-elements:[2]
Robinson, Colin D. (March 2023). "Rising to the challenge of joint-warfare: Colin Robinson looks at the creation of the New Zealand Joint Forces Headquarters". New Zealand International Review. 48 (2).