57 Squadron ATC Dargaville

57 Squadron Dargaville Air Training Corps (ATC) is a member of the New Zealand Cadet Forces (NZCF), providing local young people with opportunities to develop leadership, confidence, and life skills in a supportive, disciplined, and military style leadership.

Based in Dargaville, 57 Squadron offers youth aged 13 to 18 years the chance to take part in exciting and challenging activities that promote teamwork, self‑discipline, and personal growth.

What We Do:
As part of the Air Cadet branch of the NZCF, 57 Squadron delivers a nationally recognised training programme that includes:
Leadership and personal development,
Drill and ceremonial training,
Aviation knowledge,
Outdoor adventure and field skills,
First aid and survival skills,
Camps, exercises, and access to national courses.

Training takes place through weekly parade nights on Monday's from 6pm to 8pm, weekend activities, and annual camps.
Giving cadets the opportunity to progress at their own pace while building skills that benefit them in school, future careers, and everyday life.

More Than Just Cadets:
57 Squadron is led by committed adult volunteers and supported by the New Zealand Defence Force, working closely with families and the local community to create a safe, positive, and inclusive environment.
Adult volunteers form the backbone of the NZCF and gain valuable personal and professional skills.

Cadets learn responsibility, resilience, and respect, while forming lasting friendships and gaining experiences they would not normally encounter elsewhere.
While some cadets go on to careers in aviation or the Defence Force, many simply use the skills gained to succeed in civilian life.

Our Aim:
Our aim is to help prepare confident, capable, and community‑minded young leaders, while offering a rewarding and enjoyable experience that challenges cadets to reach their full potential.