Overview
The New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) recruits for the Navy, Army and Air Force through one careers site. There are several entry routes: sailors, soldiers and aviators, officers, part-time Navy and Army Reserves, and civilian roles. This page describes the joining process for military roles. Requirements differ by trade, so check the trade page for the role you want.
Who can apply
To apply for any military career you must be:
Medically and physically fit.
A New Zealand citizen, permanent resident, or holder of a New Zealand residence-class visa with indefinite stay. Once enlisted, you must gain citizenship as soon as you are eligible.
At least 17 years old to apply, and 18 by the time you graduate from your recruit course.
Preferably free of criminal convictions.
Education requirements depend on the trade. The site says a minimum of three years of high school is generally needed, and some trades require NCEA Level 2 or higher. Everyone is subject to security vetting by the Defence Force, NZ Police and the NZ Security Intelligence Service. Some trades need a higher clearance with longer residence requirements.
Exam pattern
After you apply, the recruiting team invites you to aptitude testing, either with remote proctoring or in person at a recruiting office. The tests cannot be done on a phone or tablet.
| Test | What it covers |
|---|---|
| First aptitude test | Numerical, deductive and inductive reasoning, giving an indication of general mental ability |
| Second aptitude test | Mechanical comprehension, such as levers, gears and pulleys, and pressure |
The tests are strictly timed so candidates can be compared. You are then invited to an Assessment Day (A-Day) with fitness testing, followed by an interview. Some trades also need a selection board.
How to apply
Apply online: answer short pre-qualifying questions, create a candidate account, complete the tasks in the portal and submit. A recruiter should contact you within ten working days. Within two weeks of applying you must provide a birth certificate, proof of citizenship or residence, academic transcripts and, if you have one, a New Zealand driver licence. You also complete an initial health and security check. The site says to allow about 3 to 6 months for the whole process.
After the exam
If you pass the assessments and interview, you join a candidate pool and then get a formal Offer of Service, which depends on full medical and security clearance. A full medical follows with an approved doctor. The medical standard includes a minimum height of 1.52 m, a maximum weight of 125 kg, a BMI range of 18 to 30, and proof of listed vaccinations.
Preparation tips
The NZDF recommends some preparation for the aptitude tests: practise similar questions under timed conditions in a quiet space with paper and a calculator. It offers a preparation guide and a fitness programme called Force Fit.
What are the minimum age rules for NZDF?
You must be at least 17 to apply and 18 by the time you graduate from your recruit course.
What does the NZDF aptitude testing involve?
Two timed tests: one on numerical, deductive and inductive reasoning, and one on mechanical comprehension.