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Medical and Dental 7. The general health of the ship's company has been satisfactory for the year. An epidemic of measles was experienced, but the number of naval personnel affected (ten) was less than might have been expected. With the cessation of hostilities, the number of recruiting examinations showed a marked decrease. The dental department has been working to full capacity during the past year, as, in addition to the Base staff, considerable work was carried out on personnel from visiting ships. Discipline 8. The general conduct of naval personnel in the district has been satisfactory. SECTION VI.—OTHER NAVAL ACTIVITIES Auckland H.M.N.Z.S. " Tamaki."—A total of 552 recruits have entered " Tamaki" since Ist April, 1945. At present a total of 78 ratings are under training or awaiting draft to H.M.N.Z.S. " Achilles." 2. Suitable equipment for training has always been in short supply, but with the conclusion of hostilities it is hoped that the position will improve. 3. A good standard of messing has been maintained, whilst the health of the ship's company and men under training has been satisfactory. 4. Extended Defence Organization.—The Examination Service was closed down on the cessation of hostilities. 5. All A/S patrols were cancelled following the cessation of hostilities, while all A/S stations were reduced to care and maintenance. 6. Clearance of the German minefield laid by surface raider in the Hauraki Gulf has continued and is now well in hand. So far no mines have been encountered. Two British and three German mines were disposed of during the year. 7. The annual test of the defences was held on 6th to Bth April, 1945, together with a test of the Examination Service. 8. During July five days' concentrated exercises for all A/S vessels were carried out with H.M. submarine "Vox." 9. Naval Control Service.—A summary of the shipping handled by the Naval Control Service Officer, Auckland, up to and including 18th March, 1946, is as follows : (i) British merchant and United States merchant controlled vessels routed : 416. (ii) U.S.S. naval auxiliaries routed and operated : 96. 10. Defensively Equipped Merchant Ships. —Technical officers and staffs have examined, tested, and adjusted the various equipments, including guns, gun mountings, radar, M.A.8., asdic, telephones, &c. Repairs, alterations, and modifications have been carried out to armament and fittings. Supply, replacement, and exchange of naval and armament stores have been made as required. The disarmament of both overseas and New Zealand register ships has proceeded satisfactorily since the cessation of hostilities. Wellington 11. H.M.N.Z.S. " Cook."—This establishment continued to maintain a high standard of servicing to ships based on the port, and after the cessation of hostilities and the departure of ships, personnel were gradually reduced in all branches. Since November, 1945, the numbers borne have been sufficient for care and maintenance parties and demobilization duties only. 12. Boom Defences. —The anti-torpedo net around the dock was lifted in September, 1945. All nets and gear have been declared surplus for disposal. 13. " Janie Seddon."—This vessel has been in use as a liberty boat and as a boardingvessel to take reception officials to all ineoming / transports.

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