About Us

Introduction to the Hibiscus Coast and Bays Sea Cadets

Welcome to the Hibiscus Coast and Bays Sea Cadets, planning on being a vibrant new addition to the New Zealand Cadet Forces (NZCF). Based in the beautiful Hibiscus Coast and Bays area of Auckland, our unit is dedicated to offering young people aged 13–18 an enriching and transformative experience.

Founded in 2023, our unit is driven by a commitment to excellence in youth development. We provide a structured, discipline-based environment where cadets can thrive, learn, and grow. Our focus extends beyond maritime skills to encompass personal development, leadership training, and community involvement.

As part of the NZCF, we embrace the rich traditions and values of the naval cadet programme. Our aim is to inspire our cadets to reach their full potential, equipping them with the skills and confidence needed for their future endeavours. Join us as we embark on this exciting journey, shaping the leaders of tomorrow and making a positive impact in our community.

Our Journey

The Inception of Our Sea Cadet Unit

The journey of the Hibiscus Coast and Bays Sea Cadets began with a vision to create a nurturing space for youth development in our community. Recognising the need for a structured, discipline-based programme that could offer more than just skill training, we set out to establish a unit that would also focus on personal growth, leadership, and community service.

Building the Foundation

The formation of our unit marks an exciting new chapter in the Hibiscus Coast and Bays area. With the support of the New Zealand Cadet Forces, we are working within the established framework of No. 5 (Rodney District) Squadron to create a unique and enriching experience for our cadets. Our focus is on laying a strong foundation for the unit, which includes assembling a dedicated team of leaders and establishing key relationships within our community.

Looking Ahead

As we build our unit, our commitment is to provide an environment where young people can thrive, learn, and develop essential life skills. We are in the early stages of planning and developing our activities and programmes, with an emphasis on seamanship, leadership, and community service. Our goal is to offer a range of opportunities that will challenge and inspire our cadets, preparing them for a successful future.

The photograph displays a group of uniformed cadets at an outdoor ceremony. In the foreground, a cadet is captured mid-gesture, her arm raised and hand positioning a boatswain's call near her lips, which suggests she is about to issue a command. She wears a navy blue uniform with the insignia of the Sea Cadet Corps, and her head is adorned with a traditional white sailor's cap marked with the word 'WAIREKA.' Her focused gaze and poised demeanor reflect discipline and readiness. In the background, other cadets in similar attire stand at attention, with a hint of a crowd and greenery behind them, indicating a formal event.
Image courtesy of TS ACHILLES (Auckland City).

Our Mission

At the heart of the Hibiscus Coast and Bays Sea Cadets is a mission deeply rooted in empowering young people. Our aim is to provide a dynamic and engaging environment where cadets aged 13–18 can develop a diverse range of skills and attributes.

A vibrant photograph captures two sailboats in action on a sunlit day. Both vessels boast crisp white sails, with the number '2' prominently displayed, indicating their participation in a regatta. The boats are manned by teams dressed in yellow life jackets; some team members are seated while others are actively working the sails. The boats are tilting slightly due to the wind and momentum, cutting through the glistening blue waters. In the background, a serene shoreline with verdant trees under a clear blue sky completes the picturesque scene.
Image courtesy of TS ACHILLES (Auckland City).

Empowering Through Training: We are committed to offering structured training that goes beyond traditional seamanship. Our programmes are designed to instil discipline, enhance leadership skills, and foster a strong sense of responsibility and teamwork.

Personal Development: We believe in the holistic development of our cadets. Our activities are tailored to not only teach practical skills but also to encourage personal growth, resilience, and self-confidence.

Community Connection: A key aspect of our mission is to strengthen the bond between our cadets and the local community. Through various community service initiatives, we aim to instil a spirit of service and civic engagement in our young members.

A Pathway to the Future: Our ultimate goal is to equip our cadets with the skills, experiences, and values that will aid them in their future endeavours, whether they choose to pursue a maritime career or any other path.

Vision for the Future

As the Hibiscus Coast and Bays Sea Cadets look to the future, our vision is anchored in the core objectives that define our purpose and direction. We aspire to be a leading unit within the New Zealand Cadet Forces, distinguished by our commitment to youth development, community engagement, and maritime excellence.

Empoawering Tomorrow’s Leaders: Our vision is to become a beacon for youth skill development, where cadets are nurtured to become confident, resilient, and effective leaders. We aim to provide a platform where skills like teamwork, communication, and problem-solving are honed through challenging and rewarding experiences.

Upholding Navy Values: We are dedicated to instilling and upholding the core values of Courage, Commitment, Comradeship, and Integrity. These values will be the bedrock of our unit, guiding our cadets in their personal and professional lives.

Strengthening Community Ties: Our unit envisions a strong bond with the Hibiscus Coast and Bays community, enhancing the understanding of the NZCF’s role and showcasing the positive impact of disciplined youth activities.

Fostering Inclusivity: We strive to create an environment that welcomes diversity, promoting unity and mutual respect. Our vision includes a unit that is reflective of our community’s rich diversity, where every cadet feels valued and supported.

Maritime Heritage and Education: Given our area’s rich maritime history, we aim to foster a deep appreciation of maritime culture and skills. Our vision is to be a hub for maritime education, where cadets can explore and appreciate the sea’s history and its role in New Zealand’s identity.

Adventure and Challenge: We envision a unit that is synonymous with adventure and challenge, offering programmes that encourage physical fitness, personal growth, and resilience.

Career Foundations: Our goal is to equip cadets with a solid foundation for future careers, both within the Defence Force and in civilian life, preparing them for success in whichever path they choose.

Community Service Ethos: A key aspect of our vision is to cultivate a strong ethos of service among our cadets, encouraging them to give back to their community and make a positive difference.

Key Personnel Profiles

The image is a formal portrait of a man dressed in a naval uniform. He stands tall and smiles at the camera, exuding a sense of pride. The uniform is dark, with a double row of gold buttons and three gold stripes on the cuffs, signifying rank. On his left breast is a name tag, and on his right, a badge with intricate embroidery, indicative of his service and position. His head is adorned with a white peaked cap with a cap badge. The background is plain and white, putting the entire focus on his attire, stature, and pleasant demeanor.

Lieutenant Commander Sacha Belcourt, NZCF

With a distinguished career spanning over three decades in the New Zealand Cadet Forces, Lieutenant Commander Belcourt is a testament to dedication and leadership in youth development. His journey began in 1985 as a cadet at TS ACHILLES (Auckland City), where he quickly developed a passion for the discipline and structure of the Sea Cadet Corps.

Rejoining TS ACHILLES in 2015, LTCDR Belcourt was recommissioned as Lieutenant and subsequently promoted to Lieutenant Commander in 2017. His dedication to cadet training was highlighted in 2020 when he led the maritime component of Exercise CADET2020, earning him the NZCF Commandant’s Commendation in 2023.

Rising through the ranks, LTCDR Belcourt was commissioned as an Ensign in 1991, later becoming the Training Officer and then the Executive Officer of TS ACHILLES. His leadership skills flourished, culminating in his appointment as Unit Commander in 1999. After a brief hiatus abroad, he returned to New Zealand and resumed his involvement in youth leadership, including a stint with the local Sea Scouts.

Currently serving as the Executive Officer at No. 5 (Rodney District) Squadron, ATC, and recently appointed as the S35-M SCC International Exchange Officer, LTCDR Belcourt brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to empowering young people. In his new role, he is responsible for coordinating international exchanges, offering Navy Cadets unique opportunities for global engagement and learning. His focus on providing top-quality training ensures that cadets under his leadership are well-equipped for success in the NZCF and beyond.

The image is a close-up portrait of an elderly gentleman with a genial smile. He is wearing sunglasses and a dark patterned shirt with a collar, suitable for a warm, sunny day. The gentleman has a clean-shaven face, and his hair is neatly cropped. In the background, there is a hint of a natural setting that appears to be lush and green, likely indicating an outdoor environment. The man's cheerful expression and relaxed demeanor suggest he is enjoying a pleasant day outside.

Mr. Graham Taylor

Following his education, Mr. Taylor contributed to significant aviation projects, including the Anglo-French Concorde and the Harrier VTOL aircraft at the Royal Aircraft Establishment. His maritime connection was equally enriched through experiences in the English Channel, assisting in sea trials on fast patrol boats and hovercraft.

Mr. Graham Taylor, Chairperson of the Support Committee for the new NZCF Navy Cadet unit, brings a remarkable blend of aviation and maritime experience to his role. His passion for these fields was ignited during his time at Princes Grammar School and the Air Training Corps, where he gained extensive flying experience on various RAF aircraft.

Beyond his professional career as a Registered Engineer, Mr. Taylor’s commitment to community service is evident. He has dedicated over 40 years to the Orewa Surf Life Saving Club in various capacities and has been actively involved with the Navy League of NZ Auckland Branch, serving as its immediate past chairperson.

Mr. Taylor’s diverse background, technical expertise, and dedication to service make him an invaluable leader for the Support Committee. His guidance is instrumental in steering the new NZCF Navy Cadet unit towards success and growth.

The image shows an older gentleman with a cheerful expression. He is wearing a casual, layered outfit consisting of a dark jacket over a plaid shirt in shades of grey and blue. The jacket features a distinctive badge on the left chest. His silver hair is complemented by the warm, outdoor lighting that suggests the photo was taken around dusk. The background is softly blurred, focusing attention on his face, and it appears to be an outdoor residential setting.

Mr. Terry Creagh, VRD

Mr. Terry Creagh, VRD, serves as the Community Relations Advisor for the Hibiscus Coast and Bays Sea Cadets, bringing a wealth of experience from both the maritime and business sectors. His maritime journey began in the Sea Cadets, leading to a notable 25-year career in the Royal New Zealand Navy and Royal New Zealand Naval Volunteer Reserve, culminating in his retirement as a Lieutenant Commander in 1985.

Mr. Creagh’s maritime expertise is further highlighted by his significant 21-year tenure as a senior deck officer with the Spirit of Adventure Trust, an organisation dedicated to youth development in New Zealand. This experience has been invaluable in shaping his approach to youth leadership and maritime training.

Dedicated to community service, Mr. Creagh has held significant roles in various local organisations. His current roles include executive committee members of the HMNZS Ngapona Association, the Navy Club, and Liaison Officer to Auckland Sea Cadet units.

An avid boater, bowler, and traveller, Mr. Creagh’s extensive experience in governance, leadership, finance, and marketing, coupled with his dedication to volunteer organisations, makes him an invaluable asset to our unit as the Community Relations Advisor.

Inclusivity and Diversity: Our training is built on principles of inclusiveness, fairness, and diversity. We strive to create an environment where all cadets feel valued and are given equal opportunities to thrive.

For more detailed information about our training, please visit our dedicated Training page.

Community Involvement

At the Hibiscus Coast and Bays Sea Cadets, we believe in the power of community. Our unit is not just about training young people; it’s about fostering a deep connection with our local community. We are committed to building strong relationships and partnerships that enrich both our cadets and the wider community.

Collaboration with Key Organisations: Our establishment and growth have been supported by pivotal organisations such as the New Zealand Returned Services Association, the Sea Cadet Association of New Zealand, The Navy Club, and the HMNZS Ngapona Association. Their expertise, resources, and networks are invaluable to our operations and our cadets’ development.

Engagement with Local Businesses and Organisations: We actively seek collaboration with local businesses and organisations that share our commitment to youth development and community engagement. These partnerships provide essential support and open up opportunities for funding, mentorship, and community projects.

Fostering Community Spirit: Our involvement goes beyond seeking support. We aim to be an active, contributing member of our community. This includes participating in local events, community service projects, and initiatives that promote a positive and supportive environment for our youth.

Building Sustainable Relationships: Our goal is to create long-lasting relationships within our community that not only support the unit but also contribute to the overall well-being and development of our area. We believe that by working together, we can create a stronger, more vibrant community.

Through our community involvement, the Hibiscus Coast and Bays Sea Cadets strive to be more than a training unit; we aim to be a cornerstone of community spirit and youth empowerment.

The image features two cadets and an older woman standing outside on a sunny day. The cadets are dressed in naval cadet uniforms, with white hats labeled "T.S. Achilles" and dark jackets with white belts. Both have red poppies pinned on their jackets, indicating the photo was likely taken around Anzac Day or Remembrance Day. The cadet on the left holds a collection box labeled "RSA," which stands for the Returned and Services' Association, an organization supporting military veterans in New Zealand. The cadet on the right holds a donation bucket. The woman in the center, likely a supporter or perhaps a veteran herself, wears a black puffer vest, black trousers, and sunglasses, with a poppy on her vest. They are all smiling, suggesting a positive atmosphere during a commemorative event. The setting includes a covered walkway and a backdrop of trees and a residential area. The image captures a moment of intergenerational connection and the continuation of traditions honoring military service.
Image courtesy of TS ACHILLES (Auckland City).

Contact Information

If you’re interested in learning more about the Hibiscus Coast and Bays Sea Cadets or wish to get involved, we’d love to hear from you! Here’s how you can reach us:

  • Email: For general inquiries, please email us at ahoy@navycadets.co.nz.
  • Address: Visit us at North Shore Aero Club, 300 Postmas Road, RD 4, Albany 0794.
  • Mail: Send mail to PO Box 443, Orewa 0946.
  • Social Media: Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Threads for updates and news.
  • Website Contact Form: Alternatively, use the contact form for any specific queries or information requests.

We’re always happy to provide more information about our unit, answer any questions, and welcome new members and supporters.

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