The Army offers a variety of both civilian and military-based skills for each trade. For example, if you joined as a plumber you would first learn how to complete domestic trade work within a camp environment, just as a civilian plumber would, before learning how to provide the same services in a field situation. We place particular emphasis upon developing initiative and problem-solving skills.

We have Army chaplains, called Padres, based in every Army camp. Padres take an active interest in the welfare of all soldiers, and our chapels cater for all religions. You're free to attend Sunday church services if you wish to do so. 

You can be enlisted into the New Zealand Army as a Commonwealth and non-Commonwealth citizen, but soldiers need to be New Zealand citizens eligible to hold New Zealand passports in order to be deployed overseas on operational service. 

The Army has a high dependence on trust and use of technical equipment and weapons, and looks for recruits who are trustworthy and reliable. For this reason, all applicants undergo a police records check, and any convictions are assessed on the severity of the offence.

Once you've completed your initial training courses, you could find yourself deployed overseas, either on an exercise or as part of a peacekeeping force. Travel is an exciting part of Army life, and you will get the chance.

That depends on how long your hair is when you join. The Army has a number of requirements regarding hair length.

For women:

Short hair should be 15mm above the collar if you have a bob-style haircut

Long hair should be tied up so that it sits 15mm above the collar

Ponytails can only be worn during personal time in the barracks and when not in uniform

No hair should show on the forehead when a beret or hat is worn.

For men:

While you're undertaking your training, you will be given plenty of time to remain in contact with family and friends by mail or pay telephone.

There are more than 20 trades in the Army, and training is different for each one. Generally speaking, all involve an initial trade training course that begins once AARC Training is complete. This course gives you the essential skills and knowledge you need to be able to perform your duties, and provides you with the history, traditions and customs of your unit. Throughout your training, you'll log your competencies for trade tasks, on-the-job training, trade courses and experience.

The Army offers a variety of both civilian and military-based skills for each trade. For example, if you joined as a plumber you would first learn how to complete domestic trade work within a camp environment, just as a civilian plumber would, before learning how to provide the same services in a field situation. We place particular emphasis upon developing initiative and problem-solving skills.

 Your first year or so in the Army is very busy, as you learn the basic things you need to know to perform your trade. Once you've served for 12 months you can apply for Army to fund your study towards many courses at Universities and Polytechs.

Many Army courses gain credits towards qualifications and Army will pay for you to complete these qualifications. The Army has its own undergraduate and postgraduate degree courses offered by the Centre for Defence Studies at Massey University.

When your AARC is complete, you'll either start initial trade training or undertake a short period of on-the-job training at your new work unit prior to a training course. When your training course is complete, you'll start doing the job you trained to do.