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NZARMY OFFICER GRADUATION

Army

Army Officer

As a New Zealand Army Officer, you will lead teams in many different types of demanding environments, ensuring they are well-prepared, resilient, and mission-ready.

Mō te tūranga

About the role

  • Specialisations

    Combat & Special Operations | Engineering & Technical trades | Intelligence, IT & Communications | Logistics & Administration | Officers & Management

  • Entry type

    Officer entry

  • Under training

    $68,103

  • Location

    Linton, Burnham, Trentham, Wellington, Papakura and Waiouru.

This role requires strategic thinking, decisive leadership, and the ability to adapt under pressure. You will develop strong problem-solving abilities and foster a commitment to service while prioritising the welfare of those under your command. Whether involved in military operations, supporting humanitarian missions or conducting preparedness training in camp, you will strive to make a positive impact both domestically and internationally, embodying the Army’s core values of courage, comradeship, commitment, and integrity. The Army Officer role offers an accelerated pathway to leadership, where candidates are selected based on potential rather than experience. It is important to note that good leadership can be delivered in different ways and with different styles - you can succeed as an Army Officer if you are genuine, authentic, and motivated to learn with a growth mind-set.

Accepting Applications

  • Initial Induction Training 26/1, starts 12 Jan 2026 Apply by 14 Jul 2025

    Apply Now

Requirements

Basics

  • Must be 18 years old by the time you graduate from recruit course.
  • Eligible to meet national security clearance criteria, as stipulated by the Government's Protective Security Requirements.
  • Pass an Officer Selection Board.

While we accept school leavers, we would prefer people who may have a bit of life experience and possibly some tertiary education. Some scholarship opportunities exist for school leavers who have achieved a good education and are interested in tertiary study. All Officers will have the opportunity to pursue further study as you progress through your career.

Citizenship

There are strict citizenship and security requirements to gain the required SV security clearance for this trade.
Find out if you’re eligible here.

Period of Service

Upon enlistment you are given an offer of service of 15 years. This is the standard Army offer but does not oblige either yourself or the Army to complete this. It is subject to factors including your right to cease service with 3 months notice once your initial training is complete.

We offer guidance on entry requirements in our eligibility section. Apply if you're uncertain, as we’ll work through the criteria with you to determine if you can proceed.

NZARMY Army Officer 1 MTP

Life as a Platoon or Troop Leader

As a Platoon or Troop Commander, you will be responsible for the training, discipline, welfare, and culture of your platoon. You will collaborate with an experienced Senior Non-Commissioned Officer (SNCO) who will initially help mentor you, developing your leadership and command abilities whilst on the job. Key responsibilities include:
1. Conducting training sessions and maintaining personal competency.
2. Enforcing Army discipline and standards.
3. Designing, planning and delivering tactical and engaging training exercises.
4. Managing the welfare and administrative needs of your soldiers.
5. Mentoring soldiers and junior officers.
6. Continuing education through Army courses and leadership development programmes.
7. Commanding troops during exercises and deployments, ensuring mission success through effective planning, decision-making, and leadership.

A Real New Zealand Soldier's Story

“Training as an Officer is a 12 month course, conducted in Waiouru at Officer Cadet School. It’s a very intense course, really pushing you to your limits and beyond.”

Kimberley.

Lieutenant

Specialisation and Career Path

During your training, you will have the opportunity to explore various Corps (specialist areas within the Army). By the end of the year, you will prioritise your preferences for specialisation from the following options:

Training Programme

01Initial Induction Training (IIT)

02New Zealand Commissioning Course (NZCC)

03Additional Training and Assessment

Benefits & allowances

Earn a competitive salary while training or learning your trade, along with additional allowances for time spent in the field, at sea, overseas, or deployed on operations.

In addition to salary and allowances, other benefits of joining the New Zealand Defence Force include:

  • Access to your Service marae or tūrangawaewae
  • Sponsored tertiary study programmes at all levels
  • Free access to gyms and swimming pools on camp and bases
  • Opportunities to travel
  • Free and subsidised medical and dental care
  • Subsidised food and accommodation on camps and bases
  • Free and subsidised insurance cover
  • Help to buy a home and save for retirement

Salary & benefits

Careers in the Army are well-rewarded, diverse and exciting. As you become more experienced and move up through the ranks, gaining additional skills and qualifications, your salary will rise accordingly.

  • Under training

    $68,103

  • Future potential earnings

    $140,000

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Am I fit enough?

If you want to be part of the NZ Defence Force you need to be medically and physically fit for military duties worldwide.

Medical & Fitness
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The application process

Your step-by-step guide on what to expect at various stages of the application process, specifically for military roles.

Application process
army generic base for roles

Ready to start your Army career?

APPLY NOW

Tūranga whaipānga

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