FAQ

How old do you have to be to join Cadets?

You can join if you are 13 (thirteen) or in Year 9 at Secondary School.

Can both girls and boys join?

Yes

Do I have to join the Armed Forces when I leave?

No, Cadet Forces is a youth development organisation and is not part of NZ Defence Forces.

What does the New Zealand Defence Force provide cadets with?

The NZDF provides you with a uniform, less footwear They also supply Regular Force advisors and organise and pay for all the promotion courses you may be selected to attend. They also provide the subjects you will study.

What if I move town, can I join another Unit?

Yes, there are over 100 Units across New Zealand that you could transfer to.

Will being a cadet help me get into the Armed Forces when I leave school?

Cadet Forces is not a recruiting arm of the NZ Defence Force. However, anecdotal evidence suggests that young people who serve with Cadet Forces seem to adapt more readily to life in the Armed Forces.

Will being a cadet help me get into the Armed Forces when I leave school?

Cadet Forces is not a recruiting arm of the NZ Defence Force. However, anecdotal evidence suggests that young people who serve with Cadet Forces seem to adapt more readily to life in the Armed Forces.

Will I be sent overseas to fight?

Definitely not.

What if I'm not too fit?

There is no requirement to meet a specific level of fitness to join Cadets. However, like many activities, if you are fit you will get greater enjoyment from your experiences.

Do I have to stay if I find Cadets is not for me?

No, you volunteer to enter Cadet Forces and you can leave at any time.

How long can you serve for?

The majority of cadets serve for up to three years. After that, if you are a senior cadet, you can serve until your 19th birthday.