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Does NZDF provide dental and medical care?
The NZDF provides free dental and medical care to all full-time serving uniformed personnel.
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Can I join if I have a tattoo?
Tattoos, including large and highly visible cultural tattoos are acceptable provided they are appropriate for a military environment and are complementary to the NZDF’s values and image.
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Can I attend evening social events off base after work?
Downtime can be spent however you wish. As an NZDF member it is important your personal conduct on and off duty is responsible, respectful and appropriate. If you are going to be consuming alcohol we encourage our personnel to drink responsibly, organise safe and sober transport home after a night out, and to look out for each other’s safety and well-being.
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How much self-discipline is involved?
The NZDF expects a high standard of personal conduct, physical fitness, dress and discipline. It may take a little getting used to at first, but once you settle into a routine of daily life, your confidence and self-discipline will allow you to handle whatever comes your way.
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Is there an upper age limit to join or re-enlist?
No. There is no upper age limit to join or re-enlist. However, you will need to meet medical and fitness requirements for your desired service.
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Do I need to provide any medical information with my application?
Yes, you need to provide as much relevant information as you can, so that our Military Doctors can make an informed decision about your medical fitness. In some cases, you may be asked to provide a report from your GP or a specialist. This is at your own cost.
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Can I wear my wedding ring, jewellery, and have piercings?
You are able to wear a plain signet ring, engagement ring and/or wedding ring, plus one other ring.
You can also wear one pair of earrings, which must be plain studs or sleepers. No other visible piercings are permitted.
You can wear a wristwatch, and it is recommended that you get a sturdy, waterproof wristwatch for when in field environments.
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How long does the application process take?
The time between submitting your application and the first day of training typically takes 3 – 18 months. There are a number of reasons why your application may take longer to process. For example:
- we may require you to undertake further medical testing with a specialist
- you may take several attempts to pass the aptitude and fitness testing
- you may miss out on the first intake you are eligible for. Some of our trades have a high number of applications and selection is highly competitive
- you may have applied for a trade that we only recruit once per year, or once every two years.
These are just some of the reasons why your application may take longer to process. Your Candidate Engagement Facilitator can provide you with more information about your specific circumstances.
If applying from overseas, you will also have to wait for an NZ Residence Class visa.
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Can I re-enlist for a different trade or service?
Yes. Your previous experience will be reviewed against what you are applying for and you may be credited some course requirements. This is assessed on a case-by-case basis and it may also be decided that you need to start again in your new service or trade alongside new recruits.
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If I fail my aptitude test, when can I reapply?
There is a limit to the number of times you can attempt the aptitude testing. If you fail on your first attempt you will have to wait 3 months before sitting the test again. If you fail on your second attempt you will have to wait 12 months before sitting your third and final attempt.
This stand-down period allows you time to personally upskill in the areas that you are weak at. If you are focusing on academic study to upskill your knowledge, talk to your Candidate Engagement Facilitator to see what is best for you.
The third attempt is your final opportunity to pass the assessment. If you do not pass, we will be unable to proceed with your application. Take the time to upskill yourself in the areas that you are weak in.
*The NZDF allows a maximum of three attempts at its entry-level aptitude tests. This limit applies regardless of the entry-level tests attempted. For example, a candidate who has completed the old handwritten tests once before would only be able to attempt the new Aptitude Tests an additional 2 times. -
When re-enlisting, how long does the medical clearance take?
This will vary depending on how long you have been out of the NZDF and whether you have had any medical treatment since leaving. We may require additional information from your civilian GP and the sooner you provide this, the sooner our military doctors can review your medical file. A decision on your medical clearance is usually made within a week as long as we have all the information we need from you.
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I'm applying from overseas. How do I find a school in NZ for my children?
Most NZ students attend state funded schools. If a state funded school is at risk of overcrowding, it can set a ‘home zone’ that is geographically defined. Students living in this zone have the right to go to that school. Full information on the NZ school system can be found at minedu.govt.nz.
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As a Reservist, will I be forced to go on deployment?
In times of war or emergency, you may be called upon to deploy.
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I'm applying from overseas. Will the move to NZ date be negotiated or advised?
Enlistment dates will be agreed once an OOS is made and we have a clearer idea of the time frame (e.g NZ Residence class visa, release etc).
Please be aware you are expected to enlist within 18 months from the time you submit your application to NZDF and that that you are required to give us as much information as possible about when you will be able to join.
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Will I be able to stay in touch with friends and family during my initial training?
Yes. Although you will need to hand your cellphone in for field exercises while on your recruit course, and for most of the early stages of training, you will be given reasonable opportunity to communicate with your family and friends by mail or cellphone. There are channels in place for your family to quickly contact you in case of a family emergency. These contact details will be sent to you prior to your initial training to be passed on to your family.
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What is the minimum age to join the NZDF?
Most careers in the NZDF require you to be 17 years old prior to your recruit course. Some careers in the NZDF have a higher age limit. You can register on this website at any age, but can only submit an application from the age of 16.5.
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I've served with an overseas military. Will my previous military performance appraisal documents be used in assessment for promotion in NZDF?
No. You will be assessed for promotion upon your performance and reporting in the NZDF.
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How long does it take to re-enlist?
Each application is different and there are a number of tasks that need to be completed before you re-enlist (military file check, police check, medical test, etc). The timeframe can also depend on availabilty of a position for your rank and trade. Some people are back within a month, and others can take up to six months or longer. You will have responsibility for completing parts of the process, the faster you complete these the faster your application will progress.
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What can I do to prepare for basic training?
You will be very busy during your initial training, so we recommend organising your personal life before the first day of training. This will allow you to focus on your course without distractions, and enable you to enjoy time on leave rather than conducting personal admin.
Improving your general fitness, running, strength, and endurance will help your team during physical aspects of training. Ask your Candidate Engagement Facilitator about your nearest Force Fit programme. Force Fit sessions are a great way to increase your personal fitness and build relationships with other people that may be on your intake.
Your Candidate Engagement Facilitator will provide you with an equipment list, and more information about what to expect during training. Feel free to ask questions at your Induction day.
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Can I wear make-up?
Make-up can be worn provided it is appropriate for a military environment. Each service has clear guidelines for what is appropriate, but in general, make-up should be light and natural.
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