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Life in the Air Force will be different from anything you’ve ever experienced. It begins with Recruit Training - the first step towards a challenging and rewarding career in the Air Force. The first few weeks will be a culture shock and you need to prepare yourself for it.
// ABOUT THE RECRUIT COURSE
The recruit course is held at RNZAF Base Woodbourne near Blenheim. During your Course, you’ll receive the full support of the Recruit Training Staff to help you achieve the standards that are required to graduate from your Recruit Course and progress to trade training. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to meet new friends, acquire extra skills and develop in character. However, what you ultimately get out of your Recruit Course depends on the effort you put into it.
// HOURS
The normal working day begins at 0600 hours (6.00 am) and finishes at 2200 hours (10.00 pm). You will find that your spare time, particularly in the initial stages of the Recruit Course, is limited.
// DISCIPLINE
You need to appreciate that the Air Force requires a high standard of conduct, dress and discipline. While some rules may seem strange at first, most people are able to adapt quickly to common sense rules that are essential to living in close proximity to others and working efficiently in the RNZAF.
// APPEARANCE
The RNZAF maintains a reasonably conservative attitude towards hair length and colouring and the wearing of jewellery. It’s important that you check the rules set out in the Recruit Booklet available from your Recruitment Office.
// ACCOMMODATION
Male and female recruits are accommodated in separate barrack blocks at RNZAF Base Woodbourne. All barrack blocks are self-contained; each has its own shared toilets, ablutions, laundry and ironing rooms. You are strongly advised to bring your own iron or be prepared to purchase one as soon as you arrive.
// LEAVE
Leave is not generally granted during the Recruit Course, however, you may be granted Compassionate/Bereavement Leave if the need arises.
// WHAT TO BRING
On arrival at RNZAF Base Woodbourne you will be issued with a comprehensive scale of service kit (uniform and equipment) free of charge. You will be required to wear uniform at all times while on duty. You are advised to take with you the additional items listed in the Recruit Booklet available from your recruitment Office.
// TIPS AND TRICKS
Here are some tips to help you get through the first few weeks of training:
- Get some washing and ironing tips before leaving for the course because you will be doing a lot of it.
- Break in your running shoes before beginning the course.
- Get fit before the course begins - follow our 5-week pre-enlistment fitness training programme.
- DON’T WALK ON THE GRASS!!!
// GRADUATION PARADE
A Graduation Parade is held at the conclusion of each Recruit Course. A Senior Officer will review the Parade and present trophies to cadets for outstanding achievement in academic and practical fields. The trophies cover many aspects of training and serve as an incentive for you to strive for excellence during training. Recruits take justifiable pride in this Parade. You can look forward to the attendance of family and friends on the day you cease to be a recruit and move into the next phase of your Air Force career.