Frequently Asked Questions

How old do you have to be to join Cadets and where do you join?

You can join if you are 13 years old or in Year 9 at Secondary School. You can join the New Zealand Cadet Forces by enrolling with your local Unit.

Can both girls and boys join?

Yes.

How much does it cost?

Each Unit sets its own fees, payable by term or by the year. The City of Upper Hutt Cadet Unit’s fees  are $30 per term  ($25 per term if paid within the first three weeks of the term).  

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 20th birthday.

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.

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 join the Armed Forces when I leave?

No, Cadet Forces is a youth leadership training scheme and is not part of NZ Defence Forces.

Will I be sent overseas to fight?

Definitely not.

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.

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

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

What does the New Zealand Defence Force provide cadets with?

The NZDF provides you with a uniform.  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.

Want to know more?

Go to New Zealand Cadet Corps activity pages or contact the unit.