Training Ship Tamatoa
Navy Cadets
RECRUITING FOR 2026!
Navy Cadets
Training Ship Tamatoa is the Hutt Valley branch of Navy Cadets which was formed in September 1941 -
Navy Cadets is one of the three corps that make up the New Zealand Cadet Forces (NZCF). The NZCF is a voluntary youth organization providing training to youth aged between 13 and 19 years old.
To develop and enable self-disciplined, confident and responsible young New Zealanders.
The New Zealand Cadet Forces (NZCF) is a disciplined, uniformed organisation which provides military-based leadership, personal development and training to persons aged between 13 and 19 years old.
Preparing New Zealand's successful leaders of tomorrow.
The New Zealand Cadet Forces (NZCF) core values are Comradeship, Commitment, Courage, and Integrity with the aim to foster a spirit of adventure and teamwork, and to develop those qualities of mind and body for good citizens and leaders.
Parade Nights
We meet at 160 The Esplanade every Thursday, 6:20pm - 9:10pm.
On the average parade night, our Cadets will learn ropeskills, seamanship, Firearms Handling and Leadership Skills.
Every Navy Parade Night, start with a Colours Ceremony
Ship Visits
Being uniquely located in the Wellington Region, the Navy Cadets are regularly invited onboard Active and Operational Naval Vessels from both the Royal New Zealand Navy, and International Naval Forces. These opportunities fill up quick, and arent always open for general public to visit.
Sailing
Sailing is one of the quickest and most enjoyable ways for youth to learn and become part of a functional team. Every position on the boat has a unique job that ensures the successful operation throughout the voyage (big and small). Once the Cadets have gained enough skills and knowledge, they will become eligable to attend a Coxswain Course (Boat Skipper), where they will then be responsible for training and ensuring the safety of the boat whilst its underway.
Seamanship and Rigging
From the get go, our Cadets are introduced and taught how to rig a crown and RS Feva for sailing, our Coxswains oversee this to ensure that the boats are sea worthy and ready for the day ahead. In conjuction with rigging, our Cadets will undertake basic seamanship skills, which will further enhance their leadership and teamwork abilities.
Navigation and Chart Work
Learn how to find your way on the water using navigation and chart work skills. From reading nautical charts and plotting courses to understanding tides, bearings, and compass use, cadets gain the knowledge and confidence to plan and navigate safely at sea. Its a handon and practical form of learning that dates back centuries, and how cadets are apart of that history.
Regattas
Regattas are where Navy Cadets bring the energy and the excellence! These aren’t just competitions—they’re full-throttle showcases of skill, teamwork, and sheer determination. Cadets compete in pulling, sailing challenges, Chartwork and Navigation. Proving what months and even a years worth of training can result in for the winning team. The vibe? Electric. The commitment? Unshakable. Whether you're steering the boat or shouting support from the shore, regattas are a celebration of spirit, seamanship, and the thrill of being a part of something bigger than yourself.
Beyond the exciting experiences you’ll have as a cadet, you’ll also gain valuable training in leadership, discipline, and personal development which are all skills that will set you apart when you head to university or begin your chosen career.
Every cadet receives a core programme of common training, designed to ensure a consistent foundation of knowledge and capability across all units. NZCF Common Training includes, but is not limited to:
First Aid
Drill and Ceremonial Training
Firearms Safety and Marksmanship Training
Leadership
Physical Training and Fitness
Uniform Care and Maintenance
Teamwork Skills
Navigation
Radio Usage and Drones
Cadet Forces and General Service Knowledge
Risk Management and Safety
Community Involvement, including at Commemorative Events such as ANZAC Day.
Cadets have a number of courses available to them throughout their time in the NZCF. These include both leadership (promotion) courses and specific skill training courses.