When your kids are small, you know all the activities and groups to keep them amused during the day and after school. But as they get older, unless they’re into sports, there’s not so many obvious outlets for their energies. 

While some chose netball or rugby, some teenagers chose a different uniform. Drawing on over 170 years of naval history on the North Shore, young people aged between 13 and 20 are able to take advantage of Navy resources and enjoy not-your-everyday activities to grow in leadership, confidence and resilience by becoming a Navy cadet.  

Every week there’s a group of teenagers on the Shore who’ve left the magnetism of their devices at home and are living the dream, for real. With the long connection between Navy and the North Shore, there are now not one but two Navy cadet units north of the bridge - at Narrow Neck in Devonport and at Hobsonville Point. 

As the weather warms up, the Navy cadets get involved a range of activities including sailing, rowing, rifle shooting, kayaking, camping, competitions, first aid, rope work, drill, naval ship visits, overseas exchanges and team building exercises. There’s nowhere else to experience these totally different challenges.

But it’s not just for the kids. Have you been there, done that? Well, the Navy has got something they bet you’ve not done! Yes, adults can train to become Navy cadet officers too. This rewarding experience not allows grown-ups to enjoy outdoor activities and challenges, it is also an opportunity to help shape the future of younger cadets as well as learning valuable new skills themselves.

Supported by the big guys, Navy Cadets 'do different'. Discover a different way to experience life - for your teen, or for yourself.

The Devonport-based group, named T.S. Leander, meets Wednesday nights at Narrow Neck, while T.S. Bellona meets Thursday nights at Hobsonville Point. 

For more information email: info@tsleander.nz or trainingshipbellona@gmail.com 

Facebook: @tsbellona @tsleander