A Royal New Zealand Navy sailor whose calm judgement and deep technical skill have shaped several of the fleet’s most demanding roles has been named the New Zealand Defence Force Person of the Year for 2025. Acting Petty Officer Marine Technician Kristen Kotuhi, Ngāti Raukawa, received the honour at Government House in Wellington, where her family and shipmates joined the Governor General Rt Hon Dame Cindy Kiro and Chief of Defence Force Air Marshal Tony Davies for the presentation.
Kotuhi also holds the title of Royal New Zealand Navy Sailor of the Year. After the ceremony, she admitted the recognition still felt a little unreal.
“I was so honoured to even be considered, let alone to be the recipient. It is still sinking in, but I hope I can serve well in the role and bring my own touch to it.”
Technical skill that makes a difference on the water
The citation highlighted her steady professionalism, her ability to lead from the front and her technical depth across a busy year for the Navy. Her work sits at the heart of the capabilities delivered by HMNZS Matataua, the Navy’s home of diving, military hydrography and Maritime Explosive Ordnance Disposal. These are areas where accuracy and reliability matter every day, whether supporting coastal surveys or preparing gear for high-risk work below the surface.
Her contribution has helped speed up the introduction of new equipment and improved the readiness of small craft. That makes a direct difference to how the Navy prepares for operations and exercises, where any delay can affect safety and performance.
Leadership built through experience and service
Kotuhi grew up in Tokoroa and Kawerau, the eldest of eight daughters. A visit from Defence Force recruiters at school opened a door to a life at sea that combined sport, travel and a clear career path. She enlisted soon after finishing at Trident High School in Whakatāne.
Looking back, she says the Navy has shaped her in ways she did not expect.
“Being in the Navy comes with challenges, but those challenges have made me better. They have helped me grow.”
This year she stepped into a senior role and has already earned the trust of her command team. Colleagues note her ability to turn direction into practical, safe outcomes, whether she is preparing dive boats, checking ordnance disposal equipment or making sure the documentation and training that sits behind each system is sound. She stays with tasks until she is satisfied everything is ready for use.
She also has a reputation for guiding younger sailors. Her support has lifted morale, encouraged teamwork and strengthened the unit’s standing. When senior personnel are away, she has no trouble taking charge.
Serving the wider community
Away from the job, Kotuhi represents the Navy through sport, recruiting and community work with Otara Blue Light. These efforts give young people a realistic picture of service life and show the Navy as more than uniforms and ships. For many who meet her, she becomes their first genuine connection to a maritime career.
At the ceremony, Air Marshal Davies reflected on a demanding year for Defence Force personnel.
“You represent the best of Aotearoa. Your work is often quiet and not widely seen, but it remains essential and respected.”
Along with Kotuhi’s recognition, the ceremony acknowledged the Soldier of the Year, Aviator of the Year, Civilian of the Year, Reservist of the Year, Cadet Forces Person of the Year, Volunteer of the Year, Innovation of the Year and leading performers in sport, safety and study.
Kotuhi’s award shines a light on the people behind the Navy’s achievements. Her work is practical, grounded and vital to the teams she supports. Those who serve with her say the same thing: she leads by example, holds firm standards and brings others with her.
