Introduction to Air Force life

New recruits may have passed the aptitude tests and have the right qualifications, but after walking into RNZAF Base Woodbourne and ‘signing on the line’, the Air Force needs to confirm that our recruits are suitable for a career in military air operations. They need to be sure about the choice they’re making as well.

Initial training is designed to take a person from civilian life to a competent and self-disciplined member of the military while confirming that person’s suitability for life in the Air Force.

For airmen, this starts with recruit training, a 12-week course that happens twice a year. Recruits are divided into two flights during the training. In a controlled environment, recruits learn to develop teamwork and support each other while under stress. They become accustomed to following orders, military discipline, moving with urgency, and they learn self-discipline – including learning how to care for and clean their uniforms. Physically, recruits become fitter and stronger and learn to bond through shared hard work.

For individuals selected to become commissioned officers in the Air Force, there is the RNZAF Officer Commissioning Course (ROC). This 26-week course is designed to prepare students with the knowledge and experience necessary for commissioned service and the beginning of a career in leadership. This course will cover various subjects including customs and protocol, command, leadership, and management, through to defence and strategic studies.

As personnel progress through recruit or officer training, they develop confidence, self-esteem, and self-respect. Drill and parade ground training become an important part of military life because they teach our people to think and work as a team and complete instructions quickly and correctly. In an emergency, this ‘muscle memory’ and ability to react quickly and without hesitation will come in handy when our people need to respond quickly to a superior’s command. It may save their life or the life of a comrade.

Both courses include the core military skills of weapons training, first aid, navigation, and lessons on military law. As part of their journey into service, everyone who joins is welcomed into Te Tūrangawaewae o Te Tauaarangi o Aotearoa, at Base Ohakea.

The training concludes with a graduation ceremony and parade in front of family and friends.