With buildings and equipment in need of repair and trouble recruiting and retaining staff the Defence Force will welcome a $52 million boost next year.
The increased funding -- a total of $309m over four years -- will help the Defence Force "meet its operational challenges", Defence Minister Wayne Mapp said.
"A modern, well-equipped defence sector is vital for keeping New Zealand secure and for promoting peace and security in our region and further afield."
Today's budget also provided $1m for the Defence White Paper.
The White Paper was expected to be released on March 30 next year.
The review, the first since a major inquiry by the Defence and Trade select committee in 1999, will take a broad look at all issues affecting the Defence Force.
The $52m will fund:
* Restoring and improving infrastructure ($15m)
* Increased aircraft activity and maintenance ($10m)
* Operation and maintenance of new navy ships ($5m)
* Improved soldier protection ($2m)
* Improved intelligence capability ($1m)
* Improved recruitment and retention ($13m)
*Other initiatives ($6m)
