New Zealand Cadet Forces

The New Zealand Cadet Forces (NZCF or Cadet Forces) is a voluntary military-style training organisation for New Zealand youth. Run in a partnership between the New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) and a number of locally appointed community organizations, it is composed of three Corps (similar to the New Zealand Defence Force): the Air Training Corps (ATC), the New Zealand Cadet Corps (NZCC) and the Sea Cadet Corps (SCC).

The NZCF is commanded by the Commandant NZCF, Lieutenant Colonel Grant Morris (NZ Army) alongside the Assistant Commandant, Wing Commander Bruce Sinclair (NZCF). Overall it is directed by Lieutenant General Tim Keating, Chief of Defence Force.

The NZCF is a disciplined, uniformed organisation which provides military-based leadership, personal development and operational training to persons aged between 13 and 18 years old. Through its three branches, the Cadet Forces provides personnel with a three-year training curriculum, while a number of unit, area and national courses provide further experience and qualifications in specific training areas. It is jointly funded by the Ministry of Defence and four national Recognised Civilian Support Organizations.

Training is provided by Cadet Force officers and NCOs through 99 units nationwide, supported by three Cadet Force Training and Support Units, composed of NZDF Regular Force (RF) personnel. The Cadet Forces also play a large role in supporting community projects through volunteer labour. The NZCF currently has about 5,000 personnel.

The Cadet Forces is made up of three branches or corps. Each corps is modelled on a corresponding branch of the NZDF: the Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF), the New Zealand Army and the Royal New Zealand Navy (RNZN).

Each corps has its own training curriculum, uniforms and organizational structures aligned with its parent regular force branch.

The Air Training Corps (ATC) is the aviation arm of the NZCF, and is aligned with the RNZAF. Formed in September 1941 originally for the purpose of training young pilots ready for active service. There are 49 A.T.C. Squadrons located throughout New Zealand with a vision to foster the spirit of adventure and teamwork, and to develop those qualities of mind and body essential for good citizens and leaders .

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