Parent and whanau information
How old do I need to be to join Navy Cadets?
You must be at least 13 years old or Year 9 to be a Navy Cadet. You can stay a cadet until you're 20 years old.
Can girls join cadets?
Yes! All students are welcome at Navy Cadets.
How do I become an adult volunteer?
All cadet units are run by a team of adult volunteers. Adults (aged 20+) can become volunteers. You need to have at least 5 hours a week to contribute and must be a strong role model, be a great communicator, able to engage with teenagers and have a clean criminal record. Military or sailing background is not essential although this would be a bonus. We have a comprehensive training programme for our Cadet Officers, including NZQA certified course.
Can I join Navy Cadets even if I don't want to join the Navy?
Yes. Many cadets join because they want to experience the adventures that being part of Cadet Forces brings. Being in TS Bellona Navy cadets doesn't mean you have any obligation to join the Defence Forces. Although, for students who wish to join the Navy after leaving school, joining Navy cadets is a great opportunity to experience what it may be like.
Where are you based?
T.S. Bellona Navy Cadets unit is based at HQ Building, 214 Buckley Avenue, Hobsonville Point. We sail at weekends from Hobsonville Yacht Club at Catalina Bay.
Can I get NZQA credits for what I learn at Cadets?
Yes. The New Zealand Cadet Forces has been instrumental in establishing an NZQA National Certificate in Cadet Forces - Foundation studies (Level 2).
Many cadet units are incorporating NZQA unit standards from this qualification into their training programme. You can have the units you achieve placed on your NZQA record of learning after you have paid the credit recording fee.
Because it is a National Certificate you can also use the credits earned to help meet the credit requirements of your NCEA levels 1-3.
How much does it cost?
Our donation request is $80 per term or $300 per year.
If you're unable to make a donation, please just talk with our Unit Commander or support committee treasurer. No student will be excluded because they can't make a donation.
Camps and other activities may be at additional costs.
What is New Zealand Cadet Forces?
New Zealand Cadet Forces is the voluntary military-style training organisation for New Zealander youth. Navy Cadets is one of three Corps, that also includes New Zealand Cadet Corps and the Air Training Corps.