Cadets

Cadets can join if they are between the ages of thirteen and eighteen. The units provide uniforms, but may hold bonds to ensure that they are returned.

Cadets may in time be promoted to Non-commissioned officer (NCO) ranks, which are based on the rank structure of the Royal New Zealand Navy. New members are referred to by the rank of "New Entrant", before progressing to "Ordinary Cadet", then "Able Cadet", which are awarded following the completion of a test administered by the unit. Ranks above this (in order: "Leading Cadet", "Petty Officer", "Chief Petty Officer" and "Master Cadet") are only awarded after the completion of joint training courses held with other units of the Sea Cadets, as well as the Air Training Corps and New Zealand Cadet Corps. Cadet ranks are often abbreviated by omitting the "Cadet" suffix.

Adult Members

Adult Members can serve in two capacities: Commissioned Officers or Civilian Instructors. Officers are commissioned into the New Zealand Cadet Forces, with the post-nominal letters NZCF, at the rank of Ensign, and can be promoted to Sub-Lieutenant and Lieutenant, after completing the necessary training and service. The highest rank attainable is Lieutenant Commander, which is available only to Unit Commanders. Civilian Instructors are civilians who help train cadets. They do not wear uniform, but they are generally treated similarly to officers by cadets.

Shooting

Units conduct regular range training with smallbore rifles. Some units have their own armouries and ranges at their parade hall. Cadets must pass a TOETS (Test of Elementary Training Skills) before being allowed on the range. Each year the Smitt Trophy shooting competition is held between all the Sea Cadet Units in New Zealand.

Boat work & Rigging

Develop and maintain safe seamanship skills in

power, sail, oar, and paddle craft, and learn the

correct way to utilise ropes and pulleys.

Other Activities

• Drill
• Dress and bearing
• First Aid
• Navigation
• Radio procedures
• Boatwork
• Base Visits
• Weekend Camps
• Rigging
• Leadership
• Survival Skills
• General Service Knowledge
• Instructional Techniques
• Weapons Training & Marksmanship
• Day Skipper - NZ Coast Guard qualification.
• Boat Master - NZ Coast Guard qualification.