No. 3 (Auckland City) Squadron, Air Training Corps

No. 3 (Auckland City) Squadron, Air Training Corps No. 3 (Auckland City) Squadron, Air Training Corps It is part of the NZ Cadet Forces which has over 4500 cadets throughout the country.

The Air Training Corps is a voluntary, disciplined, uniformed training organisation for young individuals over 13 years of age. Established in 1941, 3 Squadron is Auckland's Oldest Air Training Corps Unit and we have a proud history in producing leaders within the community. Please visit our website (3squadron.org.nz) to find out more about us!

✈️ Air Immersion Activity | RNZAF Base Ōhakea 🇳🇿In the last School Holidays, CDT Paliakou had the opportunity to take pa...
20/08/2026

✈️ Air Immersion Activity | RNZAF Base Ōhakea 🇳🇿

In the last School Holidays, CDT Paliakou had the opportunity to take part in the Air Immersion Activity at RNZAF Base Ōhakea, spending five days living on base alongside Cadets from Squadrons across the country.

Throughout the week, she experienced what life in the Air Force is really like staying in the barracks, eating in the mess and taking part in a range of hands-on activities. From the helicopter loadmaster simulator and exploring aircraft, to putting out fires and learning how to safely handle and reassemble different fi****ms, there was plenty to experience.

CDT Paliakou also had the opportunity to hear from serving personnel about the different trades and career pathways available, as well as gaining an insight into the enlistment process and what to expect from recruit course.

It was an incredible opportunity to experience Air Force life firsthand, build new connections and gain a better understanding of the opportunities available beyond cadets.

We highly encourage other cadets to put their names forward when the opportunity arises — it’s an experience not to be missed! ✈️🇳🇿

Basic I Tramp 🥾🧭🌿Our Basic I Cadets headed out for a tramp, taking on the challenge while putting their navigation skill...
20/08/2026

Basic I Tramp 🥾🧭🌿

Our Basic I Cadets headed out for a tramp, taking on the challenge while putting their navigation skills to the test! Along the way, Cadets practiced map reading, following routes and working together to find their way through the track.

It was a great opportunity to build confidence, teamwork and resilience while getting out into the outdoors. Plenty of steps, and a great day of learning along the way! ⛰️💪

✈️🏆 3 SQN TAKES OUT THE NORTHERN AREA AVIATION SKILLS COMPETITION! 🏆✈️Last weekend, 3 SQN proudly sent a team of 10 cade...
14/08/2026

✈️🏆 3 SQN TAKES OUT THE NORTHERN AREA AVIATION SKILLS COMPETITION! 🏆✈️

Last weekend, 3 SQN proudly sent a team of 10 cadets and NCOs to compete in the annual Northern Area Aviation Skills Competition, alongside 8 other teams across 11 challenging disciplines.

After months of hard work and preparation, our team delivered an outstanding performance, taking out 1st place in 5 stands:

🥇 Drill – 40 SQN Drill Trophy (our first win since 2014!)
🥇 Swim Test
🥇 CFK/GSK
🥇 MED/CASEVAC
🥇 14x14 Tent Assembly

The team’s success is a reflection of the incredible commitment shown by our cadets and staff. Training kicked off in March, with weekly training sessions from April onwards, alongside four weekend activities dedicated to preparing for competition.

The competition was not only a chance to put months of training and practice to the test, but also a fantastic opportunity for our cadets to challenge themselves, build confidence and reconnect with cadets from across the Northern Area.

We couldn’t be prouder of every member of the team and the dedication they showed throughout the entire competition season. 👏

But the journey doesn’t stop here…

🇳🇿 Next stop: Woodbourne! 🇳🇿

At the end of October, our team will head to the National Aviation Skills Competition, where they will proudly represent 3 SQN and defend their National title.

Congratulations to our incredible team you’ve made 3 SQN proud! 💙✈️🏆

Earlier this year, SGT Luo was awarded the RNZAF Navigation Award for Top Student on the NAC Navigation course in Januar...
12/08/2026

Earlier this year, SGT Luo was awarded the RNZAF Navigation Award for Top Student on the NAC Navigation course in January 2026. As part of this achievement, SGT Luo had the incredible opportunity to accompany 40 SQN on one of their Scheduled Air Transport Services (SATS). This involved spending the day in a C130J Hercules flying to bases across the country and getting a firsthand look into these operational flights. She had the chance to get familiar with the many technical capabilities of the C130J, and spend plenty of time in both the flight deck and cargo bay. A highlight was learning more about the different aircrew roles from the awesome personnel on board, and hearing about their pathways through the NZDF. A huge thank you to 40 SQN for allowing SGT Luo to take part in this amazing experience!

🎯 Basic I Milestone Achieved! 🎯During June, our Basic I Cadets successfully completed their Dry Firing Training Tests (D...
12/08/2026

🎯 Basic I Milestone Achieved! 🎯

During June, our Basic I Cadets successfully completed their Dry Firing Training Tests (DFTTs) before heading to the range for their first live firing experience. Each cadet completed three range details, giving them plenty of hands-on experience to build confidence, reinforce safe weapon handling, and develop their marksmanship fundamentals.

It was fantastic to see the dedication, determination, and enthusiasm shown throughout the weekend. Every Cadet approached each activity with focus and a willingness to learn, while also encouraging and supporting one another along the way.

We are incredibly proud of everything our Basic I Cadets have achieved so far and look forward to watching them continue to grow, develop, and take on new challenges within the Squadron. 👏✈️

🌺 Bomber Command Memorial Service 🌺It was a privilege for our Cadets to support the Bomber Command Memorial Service, joi...
12/08/2026

🌺 Bomber Command Memorial Service 🌺

It was a privilege for our Cadets to support the Bomber Command Memorial Service, joining veterans, families, and the wider community in remembering and honouring those who served with Bomber Command.

Commemorative events such as these are an important reminder of the sacrifices made by past generations and the importance of preserving their stories and legacy for future generations.

A special congratulations to those Cadets who played key roles during the service:
• CPL Lin-Scott, who delivered the reading with poise and confidence.
• SGT Mardani, who delivered the Ode in Te Reo Māori.
• LAC Ali, who delivered the Ode in English.

Every Cadet represented 3 Squadron with professionalism, discipline, and respect throughout the service. Their conduct reflected the values we strive to instil within the New Zealand Cadet Forces and demonstrated the maturity and leadership they continue to develop through service to the community.

We are incredibly proud of each and every cadet who attended and thank them for helping ensure the sacrifices of those who served are remembered.

Lest we forget. 🌺

🎖️ Promotion Night at 3SQN 🎖️The 03rd of June was a proud night at 3SQN, as we recognised the hard work, commitment, and...
18/06/2026

🎖️ Promotion Night at 3SQN 🎖️

The 03rd of June was a proud night at 3SQN, as we recognised the hard work, commitment, and leadership of a number of our cadets through promotion.

Promotions are not simply awarded — they are earned through dedication, consistency, leadership, and a commitment to supporting others within the Squadron. Each of these cadets has demonstrated growth and development in their respective roles, and we are proud to recognise their achievements 👏

As our senior NCO team continues to evolve, these promotions reflect the strength and depth of leadership growing within our Squadron. We are excited to see each of these cadets step into new challenges and continue supporting and mentoring those around them 💙

Congratulations to the following cadets on their promotions:

⭐ Promotion from CDT to LAC:
• LAC Ali
• LAC Bartakke
• LAC Chand
• LAC Nair
• LAC Sigi
• LAC Suresh

⭐ Promotion from LAC to CPL
• CPL Jenkins
• CPL Adams
• CPL Capps
• CPL Harris

⭐ Promotion from CPL to SGT
• SGT Mardani
• SGT Morar
• SGT Luo

⭐ Promotion from SGT to F/S
• F/S Jones
• F/S Mascarenhas
• F/S Totha

Congratulations to all those promoted — we are excited to see you continue to grow, lead, and develop in your new roles within the Squadron ✈️🎖️

🎖️ Change of Appointment – Unit Warrant Officer 🎖️Last Wednesday evening, we recognised the outstanding service of our o...
09/06/2026

🎖️ Change of Appointment – Unit Warrant Officer 🎖️

Last Wednesday evening, we recognised the outstanding service of our outgoing Unit Warrant Officer, W/O Alex Gavin, as he formally handed over the role.

During his time as Unit Warrant Officer, W/O Gavin has done an exceptional job supporting and developing our NCO team. He has led significant improvements to the systems and processes our NCOs use, helping strengthen the way our Squadron operates and setting strong foundations for the future. His commitment, leadership, and hard work have made a lasting impact on 3SQN — thank you, W/O Gavin 👏

We are also incredibly pleased to announce the appointment of our new Unit Warrant Officer, W/O Stella Scahill.

W/O Scahill has already demonstrated strong leadership, commitment, and care for those around her, and we are excited to see her continue to grow and develop in this important role — leading our NCO team and helping guide the wider youth of our Squadron into the future.

We would also like to acknowledge the other candidates involved in the selection process. The standard was exceptionally high, and each candidate demonstrated impressive leadership, professionalism, and dedication to the Squadron. We are incredibly proud of the effort shown by all involved 💙

Congratulations, W/O Scahill — we look forward to seeing where your leadership journey takes you! 🚀

🙏 A huge thank you to the Puketāpapa Local Board for their generous $3,000 grant towards the replacement of our gazebo r...
31/05/2026

🙏 A huge thank you to the Puketāpapa Local Board for their generous $3,000 grant towards the replacement of our gazebo roof covers and the lease costs for our storage unit.

With limited space at our Squadron HQ, having a secure storage unit is incredibly important. It provides us with a safe, dry, and clean place to store our bulk equipment, ensuring everything is kept together, protected, and ready for activities throughout the year 📦🏕️

Our gazebos are also a key part of many activities, providing shelter from the elements and acting as an important hub for administration, medical support, and operational coordination — helping keep our Cadets and staff safe, dry, and supported 🌦️⛺

Funding like this makes a real difference to our Squadron, helping us continue to deliver high-quality experiences for our young people while maintaining the equipment and infrastructure that supports our programmes.

Thank you again to the Puketāpapa Local Board for your valued support of our Squadron and local youth 🙌

In May, we were incredibly grateful to receive $4,755 in funding from the Lottery Grants Board towards ration packs for ...
28/05/2026

In May, we were incredibly grateful to receive $4,755 in funding from the Lottery Grants Board towards ration packs for our annual unit bushcraft camp — Ex Karamatura 🏕️

Having access to quality ration packs meant our Cadets and Staff were properly fuelled throughout the exercise, allowing them to fully focus on developing their bushcraft, fieldcraft, teamwork, and leadership skills in the outdoors.

Exercises like Ex Karamatura provide challenging and rewarding experiences that help build confidence, resilience, self-discipline, and comradeship among our cadets and staff.

Importantly, funding like this helps us keep what is an increasingly expensive activity affordable for our families, ensuring more young people can access these valuable opportunities and experiences.

A huge thank you to the Lottery Grants Board for supporting opportunities like this for our young people. We truly appreciate your generosity and ongoing support! 🙌

Address

202 Hillsborough Road, Hillsborough
Auckland
1042

Opening Hours

6pm - 9pm

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