New Zealand could buy a small County-class cruiser force from British yards even though domestic construction was unrealistic. Manning those ships offered employment to Royal Navy personnel leaving under the Geddes-era reductions and could bring experienced ratings, officers, and their families into the country. Cruisers and sloops also gave New Zealand a voice within collective imperial defense because contributions translated into influence over how shared forces were used. A small, trade-dependent country could improve its security by supplying useful ships and skilled people to a larger maritime system.
Notable Point · 2:12:10-2:17:33
New Zealand's naval contribution and skilled migration
Purchasing cruisers from Britain could have helped New Zealand gain naval influence while attracting trained personnel and their families.