Join Us

Recruiting for 2025

Our Term 1 2025 intake is full and we are not actively recruiting at the moment. If you contact us via the form below, we'll contact you to discuss options.

Interested in taking up the cadet challenge? 

A few basics:

• We are a youth development organisation, partially supported by, but not part of the NZDF. 

• When can I join?

  • We run a four-year training programme which aligns with the school year and recruit in November and December each year for new cadets to start at the beginning of Term 1 the following year. We don't take new recruits throughout the year because they would miss part of the training level for that year.

  • To be eligible to join cadets must be:

    • 13 – 15 years old*,

    • Capable of taking part in most activities, and

    • Able to meet the time commitment involved.

*Cadets younger than 13 may join provided they are in Year 9. Cadets may serve until their 20th birthday, however as our new recruits are mainly in their first year of high school (13 – 14 years old) we cap new intakes at 15 years old. The later a cadet joins the less opportunities they will have during their time with us

• How much does it cost?

  • The subscription fee is $30 per term.

  • Weekend camps and activities typically cost between $10 – $30 each.

  •  A Glider flight $60 and $120 for powered flying.

  • National Promotion courses**, held in the school holidays are free - the NZDF provides travel, food and accommodation.

  • National Power Flying and Navigation courses attract specific fees and medical requirements.**

  • Uniform is provided free (you have to provide your own T shirt, shoes and socks), provided it is returned in good condition (fair wear and tear excepted).

**These opportunities are for cadets who have completed their second year of training.

• Do I have to stay if I don’t enjoy it?

  • No, we are a voluntary organisation. Although most cadets enjoy their time with the squadron, if you find cadets is not for you, or you develop other interests, that's fine. You can leave at any time.

  • You just need to return your cleaned and pressed uniform and any other equipment you have on loan

• How safe is my child?

  • Your child’s safety is our top priority. Every activity is supervised by an NZCF Officer. All NZCF Officers must undergo regular Police Safety Checks and complete a course where they are formally trained in risk management and cadet welfare. Formal risk management and planning, overseen by Defence Force advisers, is carried out for all activities we run. No activity can be completely risk free. NZCF Officers are trained to recognise and minimise risk to a point where it does not impact negatively on your child’s learning experiences.

  • NZCF Officers are required to undergo additional training before they are allowed to supervise some activities. To take cadets tramping, the officer must have completed the NZCF Officer Bushcraft/Fieldcraft Course. To take cadets sailing/boating/kayaking, the officer must have completed the NZCF Marine Activity Supervisor Course. Officers are required to qualify as Range Safety Officers before they can supervise shooting. Cadets also need to pass a safety test and drills before they can shoot.

  • For some activities (eg flying, abseiling, rock climbing) we engage qualified instructors to teach and supervise the activity, though there will always be an NZCF Officer in attendance.

• If you move, you can request a transfer to another unit. There are over 100 cadet units in New Zealand, from Kaitaia to Invercargill.

• What do I do next?

  • Look out for details of our next information evening (usually held in November of each year).

  • Register your interest using this form: