Police & Defence Force Entry Prep course

On campus

NZ CertificateLevel 320 weeks60 creditsWiri CampusDunedin Campus

Intakes: 22 September | 27 October

Ready to serve and protect?

Are you planning to join the NZ Police, Army, Navy or Air Force? Our prep course helps you to develop the practical skills, fitness level and mental toughness you'll need to succeed in NZDF and police training. With New Zealand looking for many more protective workers, now is the time to put your hand up for a future-proof career.

Who can enrol?

If you’re 16 years and older and want to get into the Police or Defence Force, this NZDF entry training and Police College preparation programme gets you off to a great start. No prior experience is required – just a basic level of fitness and a genuine desire to make a difference.

What makes this course effective?

Real-world preparation: Our training has been designed with input from serving Police and Defence Force personnel, so you're learning exactly what's needed for successful entry.

Physical and mental conditioning: Comprehensive fitness programmes and mental resilience training prepares you for both the physical and psychological demands of service.

Your schedule, your choice: Training is carried out on campus in Auckland or Wellington. There are intakes in May, June, July, August, September and October.

Expert military and police guidance: You'll learn from people who've actually been through Police and Defence Force training themselves - they know what works and what doesn't.What does this course cover?

Security operations
Risk and injury prevention and management in sport and recreation
Role of NZ Police and the community services it provides
Basic emergency care
Effective communication skills
Study and career planning
Literacy and numeracy
Physical fitness

What qualifications will you gain?

By passing this course you will gain the Certificate in Police and Defence Force Entry Preparation Level 3 and the NZ Certificate in Study and Career Preparation Level 3. These recognised qualifications provide a solid foundation for your applications to Police College or NZDF training.

Industry information

New Zealand's Police and Defence Forces offer exceptional career opportunities for dedicated people who are ready to serve their communities and country.

A sector actively seeking new recruits

New Zealand Police are currently accepting applications with a streamlined recruitment process. The Defence Force has eased entry requirements and offers up to 100 exciting roles across Navy, Army, and Air Force, with world-class training and competitive salaries.

What makes someone excel in protective services?

Outstanding Police and Defence Force personnel possess strong leadership skills, cultural sensitivity, excellent communication abilities and unwavering integrity. These careers offer real purpose – protecting your whānau, country and environment with the honour of representing New Zealand.

Real opportunities, competitive rewards

Police officers start at $57,594 annually plus benefits, with experienced officers earning up to $132,927. Defence Force personnel received significant 2023 pay increases of $4,000-$15,000, with salaries ranging from $45,000 to over $200,000 for senior roles.

Both services offer extensive specialisation opportunities and transferable skills valuable throughout your career.

Police and Defence Force Entry Preparation course FAQs

Common questions about our Police and Defence Force Entry Preparation course, answered.

What do I need to enrol?

It’s easy! All you need to bring along is proof of citizenship or PR. We will help you do the rest. If you are an international student, please contact us first.

How much does this course cost?

You might be eligible to do this course for free! Talk with our Student Support Team to find out. If not, you may be eligible for loans and allowances, and we can help you with that.

What time does this course start and finish?

This course runs from either 9am to 1pm, or 1pm to 5pm, Monday to Friday. Please speak to your Student Support Team to see which option is available.

Am I eligible for a travel allowance?

If you are aged between 16 and 19, yes! If not, we can sit down and discuss what assistance you might be entitled to.

What resources will I need?

We provide everything you need.

What does a typical day look like?

Every day we will practice physical fitness training, psychometric testing and mathematical reasoning, to best prepare you for your entry test, and help you achieve your goal of joining the New Zealand Police or Defence Force. We also cover vital skills like teamwork, problem solving and stress management.

Will this course get me into the Police or Defence Force?

No – but it will significantly increase your chances of success. And the good news is the NZ Police currently need 1800 new police officers!

To find out more about entry criteria for the NZ Police check out Newcops.co.nz.

Or to learn more about Defence Force entry criteria check out Defencecareers.mil.nz.

Do I need to be super fit to do this course?

No. But you need to be fit to be in the Police or Defence Force. This programme will definitely help you increase your fitness level.

Maths is not my strong point. Will I still be able to do this course?

Yes. We can put you through a literacy and numeracy programme if necessary. It’s free and will get you up to speed.

Need Help?

If you’re not sure where to start try one of the options below.

Explore career pathways

Discover the steps to your dream career, from training and education to landing your perfect job

Take our career quiz

Not sure where to start? Take our 5 minute career quiz and discover the path that’s right for you