10/12/2025
Things are about to get even easier for our Cadets to achieve their Duke of Ed goals, continuing our practice of helping our future leaders grow through both Duke of Ed and Cadet Forces
The New Zealand Cadet Forces and The Duke of Edinburgh’s Hillary Award have taken their long-standing relationship to the next level — signing a new Memorandum of Understanding in 2025. This means Cadets can now complete their Duke of Ed journey through their NZCF programme, recognising the shared values and leadership development both organisations champion.
This year, 26 Cadets jumped into the pilot Bronze Award programme — and we were proud to present the very first Awards at No. 41 Squadron ATC in Porirua.
Pictured is Ethan accepting his Bronze Award — one of many standout moments that capture exactly what this partnership is all about: growth, confidence, and celebrating our young leaders.
And we’re just getting started. In 2026, the pilot expands across Aotearoa, opening the door for even more rangatahi to start their Duke of Ed.
